NEW DELHI: Poland Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced the expansion of the voluntary military training program, making it more accessible to a larger number of people. 

This move builds on a plan he previously introduced in the Sejm. The basic military training lasts one month and concludes with a military oath, with participants currently receiving a salary of 6,000 PLN.

The primary goal of this initiative is to increase the number of available training spots and introduce additional incentives for volunteers, ensuring that anyone interested can participate.

By 2026, the aim is to offer training to all volunteers, with the target of training 100,000 individuals annually by 2027.

“These voluntary military training sessions must be as widely accessible as possible. This is a top priority for us. There is no shortage of people eager to serve our country, and we must significantly expand our capacity to ensure everyone interested can take part,” Tusk stated before the Cabinet meeting.

The training will include both basic military skills and specialized courses tailored to various social and professional groups, with a strong emphasis on modern technologies and civil defense skills.

“The war in Ukraine has clearly highlighted the need for a wide range of specialists, particularly in advanced technologies and civil defense, where we require more experts,” Tusk explained.

To further incentivize participation, the program will offer opportunities for participants to obtain a professional driver’s license, including for heavy vehicles, which will be valuable in both wartime and their professional careers. Tusk also revealed that all individuals aged 18 to 60 will receive detailed information on how to participate in the program.

“Beyond the professional army and the Territorial Defense Forces (WOT), we must build a reserve army. Our efforts will support this goal,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

Tusk also stressed the importance of cooperating with international allies and drawing lessons from the combat experience of the Ukrainian military. 

The training will also benefit from the expertise of Polish veterans.

“We often speak of the exceptional soldiers who have completed their service—such as those from GROM or the commandos in Lubliniec. We will tap into their knowledge to create a center, tentatively named the ‘Second Mission.’ Their expertise will be invaluable to these training programs,” Tusk said.

The Prime Minister reassured the public that the government is fully committed to implementing the military training program, including increasing the number of available spots and securing the necessary funding.

Deregulation for Defense and Business – Faster Investments, Less Bureaucracy

A new special law will streamline the investment process by removing bureaucratic obstacles to the construction of military fortifications.

This legislation will also simplify investments in the defense sector, including the development of the "Eastern Shield" defense system.

“The military has been waiting for this special law, just as we are eagerly anticipating the day when our soldiers can say: finally, the state is fully addressing the army’s needs and defense investments,” Tusk noted.

At today’s meeting, the Council of Ministers also approved the first bill from a new deregulation package aimed at improving the business climate for small and medium-sized enterprises. 

One key change will reduce the duration of scheduled inspections in companies from 12 to 6 days.

The Ministry of Development and Technology has outlined nearly 40 reforms designed to alleviate the burden on entrepreneurs and improve business conditions. 

Tusk also announced that on March 24, a meeting will be held to evaluate the first phase of the government’s deregulation efforts.

Strengthening Poland's Position in Europe and the World

Poland continues to strengthen its international position, ensuring independence and stability amid global challenges. The country’s security relies on cooperation with NATO and the European Union, while maintaining its sovereignty.

“We are an independent country that makes its own decisions. Dignity is a fundamental element of any nation’s identity. 

While safeguarding Poland’s dignity and our national interests, we must act with common sense, moderation, and avoid unnecessary conflicts in the international arena,” Tusk stressed.

The Prime Minister also mentioned important upcoming international visits. 

Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz will travel to Paris on March 12 for a defense ministers’ meeting, while Tusk himself will visit Turkey to meet President Recep Erdoğan. Security and regional peace will be the central topics of these discussions.

Tusk concluded by expressing his gratitude to all those working to strengthen Poland’s security, emphasizing that their efforts are critical to building a strong and resilient state.