Poland's Defence Ministry defends women in military amid political dispute

A political dispute has emerged in Poland regarding the role of women in uniformed services following comments by politician Sławomir Mentzen. Mentzen questioned the suitability of women in the police and military, sparking criticism that his stance constitutes direct discrimination under Polish and European labor laws.

In response, Deputy Minister of National Defence Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka defended the presence of women in the armed forces, noting that women comprise 16 percent of the Polish military and over 20 percent of the Territorial Defence Forces. She highlighted the recent introduction of new military uniforms specifically designed for women, ensuring they no longer have to rely on modified male versions.

Sobkowiak-Czarnecka also announced the upcoming ‘Women at the Shooting Range’ program to encourage female participation in training, dismissing attempts to discredit women's capabilities in security roles.