The dynamically changing security situation, both in Poland and globally, presents new challenges for cities. New threats and increasingly difficult-to-control forms of known dangers force Polish cities to seek innovative methods and ways to ensure the protection of residents and the continuity of key public services. Action is required not only in peacetime but also during political conflicts and even armed confrontations.

In this context, the drafting of the law on population protection and civil defense is particularly important. During the seminar, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy (MFiPR) and Norwegian partners, participants—including local government officials, representatives of the central government, and academics—had the opportunity to discuss these challenges. The discussions focused on Norwegian experiences in implementing the concept of Total Defence and on the principles of the upcoming law on population protection and civil defense, particularly regarding the role and responsibilities of cities.

The Local Development Forum, within which the seminar took place, is a series of nearly 50 online seminars organized since 2020. These meetings provide an excellent opportunity to learn about best practices from Polish and international cities and to discuss the possibilities and needs of local governments in meeting the challenges they face.

For more information about the Local Development Forum, visit forum-rozwoju-lokalnego.pl