The sea in the campaign. Challenges and priorities for the future president. Dawid Jackiewicz for Daily Mare

What role should the maritime economy, Baltic security, the development of the Navy and Border Guard, as well as the future of fisheries and maritime rescue play in the country’s strategy? In a series of interviews with candidates for the office of President of Poland, we explore their vision for Poland as a maritime nation—both economically and strategically. Our first guest is Dawid Jackiewicz. What are his ideas for the development of Polish ports, border protection, and support for seafarers? Find out in the first interview with Daily Mare.

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22 february 2025   |   12:01   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

fot. Dawid Jackiewicz

What specific steps do you intend to take for the modernization and development of the Polish Navy if elected as the President of Poland?

Dawid Jackiewicz: The responsibility for modernization and development directions lies with the Minister of National Defense, the Parliamentary National Defense Committee (OBN), and the Technical Modernization Council (RMT), established in 2021. The latter includes representatives from the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, the Armament Agency, the Department of Armament Policy, the Department of Defense Strategy and Planning, and the Budget Department. As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the President should have a representative in these structures.

I believe the role of the Polish Navy is undervalued within Poland’s security framework, which results in a low funding priority for modernization programs. The dominance of land and air force interests often sidelines naval modernization. I would use the legislative initiative to introduce a bill on Navy development, outlining specific obligations in multi-year stages, with a 10-15-year perspective. This would include accelerating contract signings and improving the outcomes of existing programs, such as "Miecznik" and "Delfin." While I fully support these programs, we cannot allow a situation where a 20-year-old plan for seven missile corvettes results in just a patrol ship.

The President can also take a more active role in procurement negotiations for new equipment. Representing the country internationally, the President has a greater strategic influence in these matters than—while fully respecting their role—government officials. I would advocate for streamlining and expediting the acquisition processes, ensuring not just new hardware but also enhanced capabilities for the Polish Navy.

Do you believe that the Border Guard requires increased funding to ensure more effective protection of Poland’s maritime border?

The Border Guard is the first line of defense. Its officers deserve absolute respect, and the force itself should be expanded and better funded. It is encouraging that the Maritime Border Guard Unit (MOSG) has recently received new hovercraft, motorboats, and a newly designed patrol cutter built in Poland.

MOSG has modern observation and communication systems as well as rescue equipment, but in my view, infrastructure modernization should continue. Establishing a legal framework for better cooperation between the Armed Forces and the Border Guard in protecting critical maritime infrastructure is a worthwhile initiative. This is an area where a presidential legislative initiative would be appropriate. The recently launched “Baltic Guard” operation raises legal concerns, and I see an opportunity to improve its legal basis at the international level, which I would pursue as Head of State.

What changes in the MSPiR (Maritime Search and Rescue Service - SAR) system do you consider crucial for improving maritime rescue efficiency?

MSPiR is formally under the Ministry of Infrastructure, as it falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister responsible for maritime affairs. In my view, it would be more logical to link it with another ministry—either the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration (MSWiA), which oversees other rescue services, or the Ministry of National Defense (MON), responsible for maritime defense operations. The current administrative structure is illogical. Therefore, consideration should be given to integrating MSPiR into a uniformed service specialized in rescue operations, with secured funding, resources, and personnel.

Another crucial issue is the salaries and staffing levels within MSPiR. The President could initiate legislation to increase wages for SAR personnel, which would help attract new specialists. I also see a greater role for the National Security Bureau (BBN) in preparing relevant proposals in this area.

There is also a clear need for a modern rescue vessel capable of handling search and rescue operations, inspections, and repairs—especially given the increasing importance of maritime security. The “Ratownik” program is a key initiative in this regard (the contract was signed on December 27, 2024, in Gdynia, with the vessel expected to be operational by 2029).

As President of Poland, do you plan to engage in the development of domestic naval shipbuilding and maritime security equipment? If so, how?

Polish shipyards were once renowned worldwide. However, in the 1990s, many of them collapsed or were sold off at low prices. As President, I would make every effort to revitalize Polish shipyards, particularly the Naval Shipyard. One of my first legislative initiatives would be to secure stable funding for its operations and the development of technological competencies.

Additionally, the creation of a dedicated investment fund for research and development projects in Polish shipyards could be considered. We must set ambitious goals for ourselves in this regard.

What steps will you take to strengthen international cooperation in protecting Polish territorial waters?

Legislative initiatives and international engagement are the tools available to the President of Poland in this area. That is why it would be necessary to review Polish legal acts regulating the protection of our territorial waters for compliance with international maritime conventions.

Cooperation in this regard must be intensified within NATO but also through new international formats, such as between Baltic states, to establish joint patrols, intelligence exchange, and joint defense exercises. I will propose the establishment of the Baltic Military Cooperation Organization, which should focus on strengthening cooperation in data sharing, training, and regular joint military maneuvers simulating the defense of critical infrastructure to improve coordination and preparedness for real threats.

What actions will you take to develop and modernize Polish seaports?

I would involve the Security and Defense Council, which is part of the National Development Council under the President of Poland, in this matter. I strongly support port expansion. Polish ports like Gdańsk, Gdynia, Szczecin, and Świnoujście play an increasing role in international trade, and their rising cargo volumes show the growing demand for their services. They must be developed to accommodate larger ships and higher cargo volumes.

Ports, along with the Central Transport Hub (CPK), contribute to the diversification of trade routes. In the face of geopolitical shifts, Poland has the potential to become a key logistics hub in Central and Eastern Europe. The expansion of infrastructure, such as the planned Outer Port in Gdynia, will enable the growth of Polish exports, supporting both agriculture and industry. These investments should be pursued without undue concern for the interests of our neighbors. This development-focused approach is a key part of my vision for an ambitious Poland.

What role does maritime transport and inland waterway development play in your economic strategy?

Let’s start with inland waterways, as this is the more challenging issue. Hydrographic conditions in Europe are changing, and Poland is increasingly experiencing heatwaves and droughts. Therefore, water management requires special attention. We must not allow a situation where we lose Polish rivers on one hand while facing unfair and unequal policies, as seen in the case of the Oder, on the other.

The key issue is the development of water retention, especially for farmers and in the face of sudden natural disasters such as floods. Given a choice between developing inland navigation and securing Poland’s rural areas and cities with water, I will always prioritize the latter. Due to the complexity of this matter, I will delegate the development of optimal solutions to experts in these fields.

As for maritime transport—this is a lifeline for Poland. About 90% of our trade volume and 70% of its value is transported by sea. Our maritime interests are crucial for supply chains, energy security, and military defense.

A simple but powerful example comes from Sir Nicholas Hine, former Second Sea Lord of the British Admiralty, who once said that if a Polish citizen wants to buy an avocado or a washing machine, they most likely arrive by sea. We must not forget that. For our economy, the sea is life. It is via the sea that LNG tankers from the US and Qatar reach Poland.

This is why we need investment and development, not just in securing transport routes but also in building our own fleet—perhaps even our own LNG carriers.

Do you support the construction of new transshipment and logistics terminals in Polish ports?

Absolutely. But not only terminals—we also need the entire necessary transport and logistics infrastructure, which is also vital for Poland’s national defense. A good example is the Red Road project in Gdynia. We have the potential and capability to maximize Poland’s strategic advantages. We have large ports but also smaller ones, which can be expanded and strengthened to increase their position in the Baltic region.

What initiatives will you undertake to increase the competitiveness of the Polish shipbuilding industry?

Poland’s shipbuilding industry will thrive if we ensure two key factors: affordable energy and access to skilled labor. Like all heavy industries, shipbuilding is energy-intensive. That’s why one of my priorities will be accelerating Poland’s energy transition, including supporting the construction of a nuclear power plant in Choczewo, on the Baltic coast. This will help lower future energy costs and boost our shipyards' competitiveness in Europe.

We have great human potential and strong traditions—we need to give Polish shipyards and shipbuilders the opportunity to prove their skills. It might also be worth considering easing certain fiscal burdens to give companies time to regain momentum. State-owned shipyards such as Nauta and the Naval Shipyard, which build for national defense, must function efficiently and be well-managed. A review of their management structures and efficiency could be necessary. At the same time, we should ask ourselves: why are private entities like Crist or Remontowa Shipbuilding doing so well?

How do you plan to improve the security of Poland’s critical port infrastructure against cyberattacks and terrorist threats?

The whole world recognizes the necessity of strengthening defense and cyber protection, which is one of NATO’s five operational domains. We have essential institutions such as the Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime and the Cyber Defense Component Command. In this case, I would focus on increasing their funding and enhancing human resource capabilities. Forces and resources are fundamental to the operation of such institutions. Polish IT specialists are highly regarded worldwide. We must create conditions attractive enough to prevent global corporations from recruiting them, allowing them to serve the Polish state instead.

Specifically, I will advocate for the improvement of monitoring systems, which can be done independently and through international cooperation. This includes hydroacoustics and sonar—installing and maintaining a network of sonar and hydroacoustic systems to monitor underwater movements, especially near critical infrastructure such as gas pipelines and communication cables. Surface surveillance systems should involve the use of radars, thermal imaging cameras, and drones to continuously monitor water surfaces and airspace. Equally important is cybersecurity, ensuring the protection of cyber systems managing infrastructure to prevent attacks that could disrupt operations or lead to sabotage.

What is your stance on the development of offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea?

The development of renewable energy is crucial, but it must be economically rational. I support all initiatives that make economic sense, and in the case of offshore wind farms, the financial balance currently appears favorable, benefiting the national economy. However, I am dissatisfied with the slow progress of these investments and the apparent failure to fulfill commitments regarding domestic industry participation. It is essential to analyze existing regulations and solutions, and possibly establish an independent expert group to assess current achievements and investments in this sector.

We must also remain vigilant regarding Chinese espionage, which has been flagged by MI5 and the CIA as utilizing wind farm equipment located near critical infrastructure and key ports. Polish enterprises should have a significantly broader role as suppliers and contractors in offshore wind energy projects. The current efforts have been ineffective and delayed. Particularly concerning is the lack of awareness among investors and politicians regarding the strategic importance of these investments and the hybrid threats involved in their implementation and operation. We are not leveraging the available knowledge, studies, and analyses conducted by Polish scientists and international institutions, such as NATO. This must change. We need new momentum.

Do you see potential in the development of technologies for harnessing energy from waves and ocean currents?

As I mentioned earlier, the development of renewable energy sources is key to the country’s energy security, as well as meeting EU regulations. However, it is crucial to consider the ecological, economic (particularly fisheries-related), and tourism-related conditions of the Baltic Sea. Therefore, before launching investments in these energy sources, we should prepare a comprehensive and well-documented report on the potential environmental and tourism impacts on our coastline.

What support mechanisms do you plan to introduce for investors in offshore renewable energy?

As a proponent of Poland’s energy self-sufficiency, one of my first initiatives would be the Renewable Energy and Energy Self-Sufficiency Act, outlining the directions and funding sources for renewable energy, including offshore energy.

Regarding proposed mechanisms, I believe a modified differential mechanism should be introduced, based on auctions, incorporating at least a 30% domestic industry participation requirement in the evaluation criteria. The current system is too slow and does not provide sufficient benefits for Polish taxpayers. I can declare that any regulation concerning offshore wind energy that does not include a significant share of domestic industry will be vetoed.

Additionally, as President of Poland, I will establish an Energy Council to facilitate dialogue with stakeholders and ensure low electricity and heating costs for consumers while securing fair profits for businesses. One of the Council’s subcommittees will focus on offshore wind energy.

I will also push for formalizing the President’s shared authority with the Prime Minister regarding the appointment of the Energy Infrastructure Commissioner and the supervisory board members of key infrastructure companies such as GAZ SYSTEM, PERN, PSE, and PEJ. These sectors must be removed from political disputes, and the current extreme mismanagement of critical infrastructure companies must end. The consequences of mismanagement by the current leadership will be felt by all energy consumers. This must be stopped.

What actions do you plan to take to protect the interests of Polish fishermen on the international stage?

Poland must always take precedence, as it should for every citizen. This includes all aspects of its functioning, including the fishing industry.

I will not allow any unfair competition from various pressure groups and interest groups. The interference of European officials has led to a decline in the efficiency of Polish fisheries, while even British fishermen have increased their efficiency after leaving the EU. In this matter, I believe we must play hardball and remain steadfast in international negotiations, which I commit to doing if I assume the office of the President of Poland. However, I must emphasize the necessity of expert consultations to develop an optimal compromise, as we must also ensure the sustainability of Baltic fish stocks and prevent species extinction due to excessive fishing. These regulations must apply to all, not just Polish fishermen, who should not suffer due to unfair competition from countries disregarding these issues.

Do you plan to introduce legislative initiatives to reform fishing quotas and marine resource protection? If so, what reforms would you propose?

We cannot allow heartless bureaucracy to dictate terms that destroy such a crucial sector of the Polish economy. Therefore, I support tough negotiations with the European Union on this issue, following consultations with experts who will identify optimal solutions from a Polish perspective.

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