Poland, situated in central Europe, is facing numerous security issues including external threats. In recent times, there has been a wave of worry amongst Poles that their nation is under attack. While security experts feel there is real potential for external dangers, there is much speculation and a lack of concrete information about what is required to protect Poland.
Some experts suggest the threat of terrorism is growing in Europe, and that Poland is a potential target. Whilst concrete evidence for this is limited, concern amongst Czech and Slovak officials is growing, with recent reports of increased numbers of radicalized individuals in the region.
The potential of an armed attack by Russia has been a major concern for Polish security forces, as Russian aggression in other European countries has recently increased. Amassed forces in the Ukraine, annexation of Crimea and other activities in the Baltic region in recent years have led to fears of a direct threat to Poland.
There is debate in Poland over the best methods to ensure the nation’s security. Many experts argue for a strong military presence with a suspected posture, ready to counter a potential attack. Others argue that diplomacy, not armed force, may be the more effective option.
It has been argued that increased investment in intelligence gathering operations, cyber security capabilities, and preventive measures would be the most appropriate way forward for Poland in order to ensure its security. Increased cooperation with regional allies such as NATO, and other European countries, such as Finland, Spain, and Germany, is also seen as an important way of fostering a network of collaboration and support.
For Poland to remain secure, it is recommended that it dedicates greater resources to its security departments, and has access to military-grade technology, such as interceptor missiles and surveillance drones. Additionally, development of Polish-produced military equipment needs to be supported, in order to preserve sovereignty, and reduce reliance on foreign imports.
Polish authorities must also be vigilant about cyber threats. While not as visible as bombs and bullets, threats from malicious computer programs can be just as damaging. Installing proper cyber defense measures is seen as one of the most important steps to ensuring the nation’s security.
Intelligence Cooperation
In addition to military and cyber strategies, increased intelligence cooperation is seen as an essential element in making Poland secure. Sharing of intelligence between relevant authority and secret services is essential in identifying potential threats, and provides the means to counter them. This could be achieved through expanding existing regional alliances, for example through the formation of the “Visegrad group” consisting of Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Poland.
Furthermore, strengthening ties with neighbouring countries such as the Ukraine and Belarus could aid in intelligence sharing and potentially limit aggression from surrounding states. Enhanced intelligence gathering operations combined with diplomatic and political measures could be more effective in increasing Poland’s security at minimal cost, both financially and militarily.
Economic Security
In addition to conventional security, security of economics should also be taken into consideration. Poland is greatly integrated with the European Union’s markets, and its economy is heavily reliant on exports. Consequently, military threats from traditional geopolitical adversaries could, potentially, translate into economic threats. Therefore, cooperation with other EU countries is very important for ensuring economic security.
For instance, the “Polish-Spanish partnership for innovation” is seen as a viable cooperation alliance, with a major focus on developing middle-class industries such as aerospace, railway, computational engineering and new energy sources. Since technological advances are one of the greatest threats to international security, such collaborations could be beneficial, as they may provide Poland with affordable defence technology, without having to depend on other countries.
In addition, joining global financial institutions such as the bank for international settlements and banking supervisory bodies within the European Union, could provide a great deal of economic protection and security. This could be achieved through increased oversight of cross-border transactions, the ability to track suspicious activities, and the implementation of financial sanctions when needed.
Domestic Politics and Security
Poland’s security is also heavily reliant on the stability of its domestic political landscape. Currently, the country is facing rising populism and strong economic disparities. In order to increase security on an internal level, it is suggested to restructure the economy by bringing in reforms to reduce inequality.
Additionally, increased transparency in government affairs is needed, as well as effective and independent judiciary systems that can check and balance public authorities. This could reduce corruption, increase democratic values, and reduce violent protest. Such measures would increase security, not only domestically, but also from external threats.
A holistic approach is necessary in order to ensure Poland’s security. While military power, intelligence activities, economic security and domestic politics are elements of the overall security apparatus, none of these measures are effective without other complimentary elements; they should all come together to form unified and structured strategy.
Integrated Security Strategy
An integrated security strategy for Poland must take in to consideration the increasing role that big data and analytics play in international security. By gathering and analysing data from open and closed sources, Poland’s security agencies could detect and counter potential threats from hostile nations.
Additionally, increased international cooperation with other countries in the medium to longer term should be considered. This could include initiatives such as sharing intelligence and forging joint military capabilities, which can be leveraged to resist external threats. Furthermore, increased cooperation with other international organisations such the United Nations can also provide vital contributions to Poland’s security.
At the operational level, the Polish government should also invest in research and development of personnel training, and increase the capacity of emergency response services. This would enable the country to respond to conflicts quickly and efficiently. Emergency response services should be provided with adequate resources and technology to ensure they are able to respond to potential crises.
Finally, the Poland needs to develop a cultural awareness of security threats and be vigilant about potential external threats. It is essential that citizens are aware of the potential issues, and civic education should be provided at all levels, from primary school right through to universities, in order to equip the population with the knowledge of threats, and how to respond to them in emergency situations.
