Poland approves National Evacuation Plan and transit roles

Poland has formally approved its National Evacuation Plan as of July 3, 2026. Developed by the Government Security Centre based on regional documentation from voivodeships, the plan aims to coordinate the movement of populations between regions during emergencies.

In the Podlaskie Voivodeship, authorities are preparing for a dual role. While local evacuation procedures are in place, the region is also being positioned as a strategic transit corridor for civilians fleeing potential conflicts in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. This logistical focus is centered on the Suwalki Gap, the narrow land connection between the Baltic states and the rest of the European Union.

To prepare for these contingencies, Polish institutions have participated in international exercises, such as ‘Vyčio Skliautas 2026’ in Lithuania, to test cross-border evacuation schemes, checkpoints, and population movement fluidity.