Poland plans changes to its military amid new reality
Polish military (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
The new international situation is forcing Poland to reconsider its defense policy: the majority of citizens support the return of compulsory military service, according to a survey by United Surveys for the online outlet Wirtualna Polska.
Most Polish citizens — 50.5% — are in favor of reinstating compulsory military service, citing the worsening international situation. Meanwhile, 40.6% of respondents opposed the return of mandatory service.
The survey was conducted on September 13–15, 2025, using a mixed method on a sample of 1,000 adult Polish citizens.
Participants were asked to answer the question: “In light of the current international situation, should Poland reinstate compulsory military service?”
Compulsory military service in Poland was abolished in 2008, after which the country switched to a contract-based system of army recruitment. However, current geopolitical challenges, including regional threats and rising tensions along the EU’s eastern border, are prompting society to reconsider the need to reintroduce mandatory preparation of young people for service.
The survey results reflect broad debates within Polish society regarding the country’s security. The issue of reinstating compulsory service is being discussed against the backdrop of increased military cooperation with NATO and the recent patrolling of Polish airspace by British fighter jets.
British Eurofighter jets began patrolling Polish skies as part of a NATO air defense mission following recent violations by Russia.
