Reaction from the field

In a landmark decision, Poland has granted legal amnesty to its citizens who joined the Ukrainian armed forces, a move that underscores the nation’s steadfast support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. This legislation, signed into law by President Karol Nawrocki, provides immunity for Poles who participated in the Ukrainian military from April 2014 until the law’s enactment, allowing them to return home without fear of legal repercussions.

The bill, which received bipartisan support from both the Civic Coalition and Law and Justice parties, reflects a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding international military involvement. The far-right Confederation group abstained from voting, highlighting the varied political perspectives on this issue. The authors of the bill articulated that “in the existing international context, the participation of a Polish citizen in Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression cannot be perceived as a violation of the constitutional obligations of loyalty to Poland, concern for the common good, or obligation to defend the homeland.”

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Poland has emerged as a crucial ally, providing not only moral support but also tangible assistance. The Polish government has sent 379 power generators to Ukraine, further solidifying its commitment to aiding its neighbor in dire need. Additionally, over 1,000 Polish citizens have signed up to serve in the Ukrainian Legion, with 23 confirmed deaths of Poles serving in Ukraine, illustrating the personal sacrifices made by many in this conflict.

As the situation evolves, the implications of this amnesty law are profound. Many volunteers fighting for Ukraine face daily challenges, compounded by the anxiety of what awaits them upon their return to Poland. Andrzej Podgórski, a representative of these volunteers, expressed the emotional toll, stating, “Many of these volunteers who are fighting for Ukraine, besides the daily challenges of just surviving from day to day, also have this worry about ‘what will happen when I return home.’” This law aims to alleviate some of those concerns, allowing them to reintegrate into Polish society without the burden of legal consequences.

In a related development, the European Writers’ Council (EWC) has voiced its support for a bill aimed at protecting Poland’s book market. The Act on the Protection of the Book Market, which seeks to establish a fixed book price system, was announced by Poland’s Ministry of Culture and National Heritage in December 2025. The EWC, representing a quarter million writers from 52 associations and 34 countries, advocates for transparency and fair remuneration for writers and translators in the book sector.

The EWC expressed optimism regarding the ongoing consultations within the Ministries, hoping that these discussions will lead to a pivotal historic moment for the literary community. They stated, “The first important step has been taken, and we look with appreciation and hope at this deeply important message to the whole of Europe.” This sentiment reflects a broader cultural commitment within Poland to support not only its citizens but also the arts and literature amid challenging times.

As Poland navigates these complex issues, the legal amnesty for citizens who joined the Ukrainian armed forces represents a significant shift in policy, one that acknowledges the realities of modern warfare and the bonds of solidarity that transcend borders. The future remains uncertain, but the Polish government’s actions signal a commitment to supporting its citizens and allies during a time of crisis. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of this legislation and how it will be implemented in practice, but the community is hopeful for a positive outcome.

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