The one-day courses prepare civilians for war and other emergencies as regional security fears remain high. More than 20,000 Poles have taken part in a civilian emergency training program since it was launched last November, a senior defense official has said. The government-backed “wGotowości,” or “Always Ready,” program teaches civilians how to respond to emergencies ranging from armed conflict to fires and floods, offering practical courses in first aid, survival, cybersecurity and crisis response. The program is part of a series of measures to improve civil defense in Poland as concerns grow that Russia's war on neighboring Ukraine could spill over across the border. Deputy Defense Minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka said on Saturday that more than 20,000 people had already received training under the initiative, which is open to all Polish citizens aged 13 or over. She made the announcement during a visit to the 18th Capital Territorial Defense Brigade’s base in eastern Warsaw. The courses complement the government’s “Security Guide,” published last year to help households prepare for emergencies. “The ‘Security Guide’ is theory, while the ‘wGotowości’ training allows people to learn the practical side,” Sobkowiak-Czarnecka said. The program was introduced as Poland seeks to make its population more resilient to crises against the backdrop of the war across its eastern border. Poland borders Ukraine and Belarus as well as Russia’s heavily militarized Kaliningrad region, placing it at the center of growing security concerns along NATO’s eastern flank. No military commitments Each course lasts about eight hours and provides practical instruction in four areas, including first aid, cybersecurity and cyber hygiene, survival skills and basic safety procedures during emergencies. Sobkowiak-Czarnecka emphasized that taking part did not amount to enlisting in the armed forces or accepting any military obligation. “It is purely and simply a training course,” she said. The current round of courses will continue until the end of November. Those interested can register through the government’s mObywatel app. Two training tracks Developed by the Defense Ministry and the Polish Armed Forces, “wGotowości” comprises two tracks known as “Resilience” and “Reserves.” The Resilience track is aimed at civilians with no previous connection to the armed forces. Its pilot phase began in November 2025, with four rounds of weekend courses held before the end of the year. The Reserves track is due to begin next year and will be aimed at people who want to receive basic military instruction, including weapons handling. Unlike the civilian courses, it is intended to prepare people for possible service as military reservists.
