Poland is launching an extensive initiative to train its citizens in military, medical, and survival skills, reflecting a significant push to enhance national defense capabilities. The program, named “At Readiness,” aims to improve both individual and community resilience in response to evolving security threats.
According to reports, the program will initially operate on a voluntary basis, offering a range of one-day courses catering to various needs. Participants can choose from four key areas: basic safety, survival techniques, medical response, and cyber hygiene. These courses are designed to equip individuals with practical skills for crisis preparedness, first aid, online safety, and effective emergency response.
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk indicated that approximately 20,000 individuals are expected to participate in training sessions during November and December alone. The ministry anticipates that the total number of participants for the year could rise to around 100,000, encompassing different formats of individual and group training, reserve training, and voluntary service. By the year 2026, the goal is to train about 400,000 citizens.
The program emphasizes accessibility, with registration facilitated through a user-friendly mobile application that allows citizens to select preferred dates and training locations.
This initiative comes amid increasing tension in Eastern Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has prompted Poland to reassess its defense strategies. In light of these security concerns, Warsaw has ramped up its defense spending, aiming to allocate 4.7 percent of its GDP by 2025, positioning itself as one of the largest military spenders within NATO.
The training of civilians is viewed as a strategic enhancement to the nation’s defense, serving as a supplementary layer of preparedness in addition to professional armed forces. The skills imparted through this program are anticipated to benefit citizens in emergencies ranging from natural disasters to military conflicts near Poland’s eastern borders.
There has been a notable surge in public interest since registration opened, with Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz referring to participation as “a great investment in our shared security.” On the first day alone, over 3,770 people registered for the courses, highlighting a strong community willingness to enhance personal and collective safety.
