Sejm Passes SAFE Program Act to Protect National Security

The Sejm of the Republic of Poland has passed an act to implement the SAFE program, which is one of the most controversial points on the current political agenda. The initiative's goal is to secure preferential financing for defense and technological purposes, which, according to assurances from Finance Minister Andrzej Domański, will allow for a reduction in public debt servicing costs by tens of billions of PLN. The government argues that in the face of a tense geopolitical situation, Poland must utilize available financial mechanisms that offer stability and predictability. Minister Domański emphasized that these funds are essential for ensuring the country's financial calm in the long term. An entirely different perspective is presented by the opposition and some conservative commentators, who view SAFE as a tool for deepened European integration at the expense of Warsaw's decision-making autonomy. Critics point out that eight European Union member states have decided not to join this mechanism, which in their view proves the existence of hidden political costs. Arguments are raised about the potential "handing over of the keys to the Polish budget" to international institutions. The atmosphere is heated by reports of the government's promotional difficulties, which made an unsuccessful attempt to use artificial intelligence to popularize the program on social media. After 1989, Polish defense policy was based on systematically strengthening the alliance with the USA and integration within NATO structures, which has always required balancing modernization needs with the country's budgetary capabilities.All observers' eyes are now turned to the Presidential Palace. Karol Nawrocki faces a dilemma regarding a potential veto, which right-wing circles are calling for. The Chancellery of the President issued a statement noting that the head of state will not yield to any pressure and will make a decision after an in-depth legal analysis. Meanwhile, PSL politicians, including Ministers Stefaniak and Rosiński, are promoting the program in the regions, linking it to local security and the development of the mObywatel app. However, social dialogue on this matter remains tense, which was criticized, among others, by Solidarity leader Piotr Duda, who accused the ruling party of lacking proper consultations. „This is not just a loan; it is an investment in financial sovereignty that will bring savings of up to 60 billion PLN.” — Andrzej Domański An important aspect of the public debate is also the international context of the program. Signals are arriving about the European Commission blocking SAFE fund payments to Hungary, which for some Polish politicians serves as a warning about the application of conditionality mechanisms. Nevertheless, the government side firmly maintains its position that a lack of alternative to this financing model would force Poland to take out much more expensive commercial loans. The SAFE program, alongside military modernization, is also intended to support innovative technology companies, which Donald Tusk presented on a special map of road and industrial investments related to the new funds.

Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media emphasize budget gains and security, presenting SAFE as a rational economic choice in difficult times. Conservative media focus on the threat to sovereignty, calling the program a loan trap and a tool for EU federalization.