Poland establishes national evacuation and property protection plans

Poland is establishing a multi-level national evacuation system designed to prepare for natural disasters or war. Under the Act on Population Protection and Civil Defense dated December 5, 2024, evacuation plans must include specific provisions for the protection of property left behind by residents.

Starting in July 2026, the Government Security Centre (RCB) will develop a National Evacuation Plan in cooperation with the Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces. This plan will outline the number of people to be evacuated, transport routes (including rail, water, and air infrastructure), accommodation sites, and the personnel responsible for coordination.

The planning process involves local authorities, including mayors and county officials, who provide data to provincial levels. The system aims to ensure that resources for securing abandoned homes and cultural assets are identified before a crisis occurs, rather than during one.