Security and Stability for Europe

Faced with mounting threats and challenges, our presidency will work intensively to contribute to a secure, competitive and equal Europe. The Polish Presidency of the EU Council prioritises security in seven different dimensions – internal and external, energy, economics, health, food and information. There is much to be done across all of them. Security concerns lie heavy on the minds and hearts of all Europeans today.

The Polish Presidency comes at a crucial time, fraught with geopolitical challenges: the war in Ukraine, a new administration in the White House and elections in Germany. It also coincides with a significant date in the EU calendar: a newly formed European Commission and newly established European Parliament.

• External security. Recent years have been marred by the war in Ukraine, which we must not forget and to which we must not grow accustomed. It is therefore imperative to continually stand by our eastern neighbours. External security also entails strengthening the EU’s defence capabilities. We aim to foster defence initiatives and the arms industry, and develop the military infrastructure of the old continent. In particular, measures to further the construction of fortifications on the border with Russia and Belarus (East Shield, the European ‘‘Iron Dome’’ and the Baltic Defence Line) will be of great importance. Not only does this constitute an investment in stability and peace, but also in solidarity between Member States.

• Internal security and resilience. Recent months have witnessed dramatic environmental emergencies, with flooding in the Klodzko Basin and Valencia. Similar events must not endanger the lives and health of Europeans, nor damage their property. Collaboration towards our internal security represents an objective for the Polish Presidency. The same applies to a renewed outlook on migration policy as presented by Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

• Energy for Europe. It is essential for Europe to break its dependence on energy sources originating from Russia as quickly as possible. The Polish Presidency will endeavour to enhance the EU’s energy security, encompassing both physical infrastructure and cyber security. The agenda features a review of EU energy policy and establishing the necessary framework for lowering energy prices, which is so crucial for economic competitiveness. With respect to the green transition, we attach great importance to the ownership of green technologies. A secure Baltic Sea, where our critical infrastructure is being developed, represents yet another component of energy security.

• Economic recovery. The EU needs a new stimulus for economic growth. Poland will work to kerb unnecessary regulations and facilitate the functioning of the EU internal market. Supporting innovation, digital transformation and equal access to resources for SMEs will play a significant role. We are also setting the scene for negotiations on the new Multiannual Financial Framework, which will determine the future of investment in Europe.

• Child mental health. The Polish Presidency will definitely also address the issue of mental health support for children. In partnership with all EU Member States, we will draft a report, which will investigate at an unprecedented level the impact of social media on their psychological well-being.

• Information security. Today, fake news and disinformation are instruments of hybrid warfare. The Polish Presidency will take the necessary steps to eradicate false information and address education on European issues.

As Europe grapples with many challenges, Poland aims to spearhead changes to strengthen the Community and enable it to tackle threats effectively. We will need to prove our readiness to play a more proactive role in building European consensus and solidarity. This is a chance to define new standards of cooperation that will benefit the entire EU. A strong Poland within a strong European Union is our mission and an objective we will consistently pursue. ©Ⓟ