Alert: The Territorial Defence Forces (“WOT”) command issued a special Readiness Alert regarding the possible call-up of soldiers for immediate service

In connection with the unprecedented violation of Polish airspace, the Territorial Defence Forces (“WOT”) command issued a special Readiness Alert regarding the possible call-up of soldiers for immediate service.

Below we present some key information for employers who employ WOT soldiers in connection with the current situation.

Who will inform the employer about the employee’s call-up from?

• The commander of the military unit shall immediately notify the employer of the call-up of an employee who is a WOT soldier for immediate reporting for duty.

What are the obligations of an employee who is a soldier in connection with the call-up?

• The employee should notify the employer of the call-up – however, it should be remembered that such call-ups take place in exceptional circumstances. Notifications may reach employers with a delay.

What are the employer’s obligations in connection with the call-up of an employee?

• The employer grants such an employee unpaid leave (for the duration of service) in the event of an immediate call-up, based on notification from the head of the military recruitment centre.
• During their leave, employees retain all rights arising from their employment relationship, with the exception of the right to remuneration.

Representatives of EU institutions have expressed their full solidarity with Poland’s actions and remain in constant contact with the Polish authorities. Employers should bear in mind that information from last night suggests that employees who are WOT soldiers may be called up for immediate service.