A Polish survey reveals public opinion on the government’s SAFE program versus an alternative “Polish SAFE Zero” plan for military investment.
Dispute Over Military Funding Attracts Public Attention
A recent survey gauged public opinion on two proposed approaches to financing military investments, following a dispute between the government and President Karol Nawrocki regarding funding methods.
The SAFE program received the most support, garnering 68.26% of votes as of March 17, 2026, while “Polish SAFE Zero” received 28.92%. A small percentage, 2.82%, indicated no opinion, with a total of 3122 votes cast. The difference between the two leading options exceeded 39 percentage points.
SAFE Program and the Alternative
The SAFE program proposes billions of euros for military modernization, while the alternative relies on domestic funding sources.
SAFE is a European Union initiative offering Poland up to €43.7 billion (approximately 200 billion złoty) in low-interest loans with a 10-year repayment deferral and a potential repayment period of up to 45 years. Funds are intended to benefit the Polish defense industry and related companies.
The “Polish SAFE Zero” alternative proposes funding investments from the National Bank of Poland’s profits, avoiding interest and traditional credit arrangements.
Presidential Veto and Government Response
The government’s SAFE implementation bill was previously approved by the Sejm and Senate, outlining management of funds through the Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego with state treasury guarantees.
On March 12, 2026, President Karol Nawrocki vetoed the bill, citing concerns about long-term debt and restrictions on procurement from outside designated areas. He previously presented his own concept, the Polish Defense Investment Fund, and submitted a corresponding bill to the Sejm.
Despite the veto, the government announced its intention to activate SAFE funds using available legal mechanisms.
