Unlike compulsory service, wGotowości is open to all citizens—from schoolchildren to retirees—on a voluntary basis. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz framed the plan as part of a wider societal mobilization effort, citing “the most dangerous times since World War II.”

400,000 Citizens to Be Trained

The pilot phase begins on November 22, 2025, with 20,000 participants, expanding to as many as 400,000 by the end of 2026.

Training will cover basic military skills, first aid, survival tactics, cybersecurity, crisis management, and counter-disinformation strategies.

Participants can select modules tailored to their age group and profession.

Voluntary but Nationwide

Despite international headlines suggesting a draft, the Polish government stressed that wGotowości is entirely voluntary.

It complements earlier initiatives like “Trenuj z wojskiem” (“Train with the Military”)—a shorter weekend program—but is designed on a far larger scale.

School reservists will receive 1,000 PLN (about $250) monthly stipends, and all courses are free of charge.

“We Live in Dangerous Times”

Announcing the plan, Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz said, “We are living in the most dangerous times since World War II. There is a war beyond our border, acts of sabotage in the Baltic Sea, and battles in cyberspace.”

The remarks reflect Warsaw’s alarm over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, hybrid threats, and sabotage activity targeting European infrastructure.

NATO’s Frontline Posture

Poland already spends over 4% of GDP on defense—the highest in NATO—and aims to grow its professional army to 300,000 troops.

The new program signals a whole-of-society approach to deterrence and preparedness as Poland hosts thousands of allied soldiers and stockpiles Western weaponry.