Introduction
Poland has had a long policy of maintaining a military presence in the Middle East, since the early 2000s. In 2007, Poland sent troops to Iraq in response to a UN Security Council resolution calling for the deployment of multinational forces for the stabilization of the country. This article will provide an overview of the Polish contribution to Iraqi stabilization in 2007, highlighting key developments, outcomes, and reactions to the deployment.
The Background
Poland joined the US-led coalition in Iraq in late 2003, after the invasion by the United States and Great Britain. Initially, Poland sent two thousand troops who were expected to stay in Iraq for one year, but the mission was extended to 2010. From 2007 onwards, the Polish contribution focused exclusively on stabilization rather than combat operations. The Polish contribution now shifted from the ‘reconstruction’ to the ‘stabilization’ tasks set out by the UN Security Council.
Developments in 2007
In December 2006, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution to strengthen the multinational forces in Iraq by deploying an additional 13,500 soldiers, which included approximately 1,100 Polish troops. The Polish army set up its headquarters in a former air base in Al-Anbar province in western Iraq, and it was formerly inaugurated in April 2007. As for the Polish mission goals, they focused mainly on training and mentoring the Iraqi Army, among other stabilization operations.
Outcomes of the Polish Deployment
The stabilization mission of the Polish army was successful and largely praised by the UN. The mission achieved many of its goals, particularly in helping to strengthen the Iraqi security forces. Moreover, the deployment of Polish troops in Iraq helped to strengthen Poland’s international reputation, and to enhance Poland’s cooperation with its allies. Polish troops also served as a bridge between Iraq and the international community, promoting social and economic progress, and helping to improve the security of the region.
Reactions to the Deployment
The deployment of Polish troops to Iraq in 2007 received mixed reactions. On the one hand, it was supported by most international organizations and some political leaders, while on the other hand, some Polish citizens expressed their concerns and opposition to the troops’ presence in an unstable environment. Many activists argued that the Polish Mission was only serving the US interests in the region, and that it was not helping to bring about positive change.
Economic Consequences
In addition to the political controversy surrounding the deployment in Iraq, the economic consequences of the deployment of Polish troops were also significant. The Polish government had to invest millions of dollars in the mission, which caused economic difficulties and a rise in public debt. The large-scale deployment of Polish troops also had an economic impact on the countries in the region.
Alternative Options
The deployment of Polish troops in Iraq in 2007 raised important questions about the effectiveness and desirability of such foreign policy actions. Evaluating the alternative options, some argue that the Polish government could have instead invested the resources in development and peace building activities or alternative military operations in countries located near Iraq. For instance, a few development agencies proposed investing in training and equipment for the Iraqi Army, while others suggested that Polish forces could provide humanitarian assistance in Lebanon or in Darfur.
Evaluation of the Polish Mission
The Polish mission in Iraq in 2007 enabled the Polish army to gain the experience necessary to participate in future similar operations, as well as to increase its international prestige. Furthermore, the mission has improved the relations between the Polish and Iraqi armies, and Polish troops have often acted as a mediator between them. On the other hand, the mission’s costs, both financial and human, have been significant. Moreover, the deployment of Polish troops in Iraq has reinforced the predominance of the United States in the region, deepening the existing divisions between different sides in the conflict.
International Cooperation
The Polish mission in Iraq was conducted in close cooperation with other countries, and Poland played a major role in leading the operations. The cooperation between Poland and the United States was close, and intelligence sharing was a frequent activity between the two. Furthermore, Polish troops also collaborated closely with the UK, France, Germany, Romania, Estonia, Slovakia, Hungary, and several other European countries, as well as with other non-European countries such as Australia and Canada.
Relationship with Iraq
The Polish deployment was also seen as a way of establishing friendly relations with Iraq, and many Poles visited the country in the years following the deployment. Due to the Polish military’s assistance in stabilizing Iraq, their relationship has significantly improved in recent years. The two countries recently signed an agreement on economic and cultural cooperation, and the Iraqi authorities have expressed their willingness to continue to develop this relationship.
Problems and Challenges
Despite its successes in providing assistance and security, the Polish mission in Iraq was not without difficulties. Some of the challenges included economic issues, logistics problems, and security incidents, such as the kidnapping of Polish contractors in 2007. Furthermore, the mission has been criticized for its lack of transparency, as the public was not informed of the details of the mission due to security reasons.
Political Implications
The Polish deployment in Iraq has also had significant political implications. The deployment has enabled Poland and other countries in the region to join the international efforts to stabilize Iraq and improved Poland’s relationship with the US. Moreover, some analysts argue that the deployment has helped Poland to become a more important player in international affairs. At the same time, the mission has also led to the weakening of the opposition parties in Poland, who have been critical of the deployment.
Opinion and Debate
The deployment of Polish troops in Iraq in 2007 has been highly controversial in Poland and throughout the world. The mission has triggered a lot of debate, and many people are still divided on the issue. While some argue that the mission was a necessary step towards stability and cooperation in the region, others argue that the mission has had negative consequences, both for the Polish army and for the people of Iraq.
