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On 1 January, Poland began its six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union, for the first time in 20 years after joining the EU. Warsaw has outlined the key priority of its programme as strengthening Europe’s security in the context of the threat from Russia, according to the website of the Polish EU Presidency.
“The Polish presidency will support activities to strengthen European security in all its dimensions: external, internal, information, economic, energy, food and health,” the presidency programme states.
Priorities of the Polish Chairmanship
Poland promises to continuously support Ukraine, in particular to help it recover from the war, and to increase pressure on Russia and its allies. Among other priorities:
- Defending democracy, freedom and the rule of law;
- merit-based EU enlargement, which Warsaw believes is a geopolitical imperative;
- Increasing defence capability by increasing military spending, developing the defence industry and addressing gaps in defence capabilities;
- cooperation with partners who share European values and aspire to EU membership.
“The EU must give its citizens a sense of security and development prospects, as well as protect its immediate neighbours,” the statement said.
European defence and cooperation with NATO
Warsaw insists on coordinated defence actions that complement NATO’s efforts. Poland will also initiate in-depth discussions on defence funding within the EU, urging member states to increase military spending in line with existing threats.
Poland took over the presidency from Hungary, and from July 2025, Denmark will take over. At a time of geopolitical tensions caused by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the Polish presidency is seen as an important chance for Europe to strengthen its unity and ability to counter threats.
