Reaction from the field
In a significant legislative move, Poland has granted legal amnesty to its citizens who participated in the Ukrainian armed forces since April 2014, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This decision underscores Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. The law, signed by President Karol Nawrocki, provides immunity for Poles who served in the Ukrainian military, alleviating fears of legal repercussions upon their return home.
The new legislation was met with bipartisan support, receiving backing from both the Civic Coalition and the Law and Justice parties. This unity reflects a broader consensus within Polish politics regarding the importance of aiding Ukraine. However, the far-right Confederation group abstained from voting, indicating some division in the political landscape. The authors of the bill articulated a strong rationale, stating that “in the existing international context, the participation of a Polish citizen in Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression cannot be perceived as a violation of the constitutional obligations of loyalty to Poland, concern for the common good, or obligation to defend the homeland.”
Poland’s proactive stance is evident not only in its legislative actions but also in its material support for Ukraine. The Polish government has committed to sending 379 power generators to assist Ukraine, alongside raising €1.6 million to procure additional equipment. This level of support highlights Poland’s strategic role as a key ally in the region, as it continues to navigate the complexities of international relations amid the ongoing conflict.
As of now, approximately 1,000 Polish citizens have joined the Ukrainian Legion, with 23 confirmed deaths reported among those serving. This participation raises significant concerns for the volunteers, as many grapple with the uncertainty of their future upon returning to Poland. Andrzej Podgórski, a representative of the volunteers, emphasized this anxiety, noting that “many of these volunteers who are fighting for Ukraine, besides the daily challenges of just surviving from day to day, also have this worry about ‘what will happen when I return home.’”
In parallel to these developments, the European Writers’ Council (EWC) has expressed its support for a bill aimed at protecting Poland’s book market. The Act on the Protection of the Book Market, announced by Poland’s Ministry of Culture and National Heritage in December 2025, seeks to establish a fixed book price system. This initiative is significant for the literary community, as it aims to ensure transparency and appropriate remuneration for writers and translators in the book sector. The EWC, representing a quarter million writers from 52 associations across 34 countries, views this legislation as a crucial step towards safeguarding the interests of authors.
The EWC has voiced optimism regarding the ongoing consultations within the Polish government, stating, “The EWC expresses its full hopes, that the further consultations within the Ministries lead to a pivotal historic moment.” This sentiment reflects a broader hope that Poland will continue to prioritize cultural and economic stability alongside its humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
As Poland navigates these complex issues, the implications of its amnesty law and support for Ukraine remain to be fully realized. The international community will be watching closely to see how this legislation affects the lives of Polish citizens who have fought abroad and how it shapes Poland’s role on the global stage. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impacts of these developments, but the current trajectory suggests a deepening commitment to both national and regional stability.