Poland Faces a Challenge That Extends Beyond Its Borders
Today, Poland stands before a challenge that transcends its national boundaries. In the face of growing international instability and global crises, development cooperation policy should become a key element of our security and development strategy. Unfortunately, as noted by our expert Dr. Oskar Chmiel and Dr. Katarzyna Zalas-Kamińska (Institute of Political Science, University of Wrocław), this issue has not yet received proper attention or concrete commitments in the latest policy statement by Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.
Why Is Development Cooperation Important?
Development aid is not only an expression of solidarity but also a strategic “deal” that links political, economic, and social interests. At a time when traditional Western donors are reducing their engagement, and new actors are gaining influence on the international stage, Poland has an opportunity to strengthen its position and credibility—not only as an economy but also as a global partner.
Current challenges show that the lack of a consistent and well-coordinated development cooperation policy can lead to the destabilization of neighboring regions, which directly impacts Poland’s security and stability. Examples such as support for Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia are clear proof of this.
Where Are We Today?
In recent years, Poland has met the minimum obligations regarding spending on official development assistance (ODA), but this level remains low compared to other EU countries. The increase in 2023 was driven primarily by the inclusion of costs related to hosting refugees from Ukraine, rather than by new strategic initiatives.
Moreover, Poland’s development cooperation system urgently needs reform—there is a lack of a coherent concept, effective coordination, and a strong coordinator who could build a national platform for cooperation, dialogue, and education.
What Needs to Change?
-
Increase spending on official development assistance so that Poland can more effectively support foreign partners and strengthen its position in the region.
-
Create and strengthen a national cooperation platform that would connect government, NGOs, and the private sector.
-
Implement a unified, strategic vision for Polish development aid based on smart power principles, combining soft and hard tools of foreign policy.
-
Foster institutional development, including the formal establishment of a development cooperation agency, to enable better resource management and continuity of action.
-
Encourage greater involvement of Polish companies and organizations in development projects, especially in the context of Ukraine’s reconstruction and modernization and in supporting reforms in neighboring countries.
