Poznań’s mayor Jaśkowiak faces criticism for proposing a trip to Israel to study civilian protection and cybersecurity strategies despite ongoing tensions in the region.
Planned Visit Details
Polish newspaper Gazeta.pl reported that the 34th International Mayors Conference in Tel Aviv, where Jaśkowiak plans to participate, will take place between November 16th and 20th. The Mayor’s office stated that the trip is still being planned and costs have not yet been finalized.
Critical Reaction from Local Activists
A local activist group from the environmental party Razem expressed strong opposition, calling the proposed trip “a shame” and drawing parallels to potential travel to Russia.
Jaśkowiak’s Response
In response to the criticism, mayor Jaśkowiak emphasized that Poland must cooperate with those who have relevant expertise in protecting democratic values. He noted the complex situation in Gaza and expressed concern for the civilian population there but stressed that the Israeli systems of monitoring and threat detection are technologically superior to those available in Polish cities.
