President Andrzej Duda celebrated St. Barbara’s Day, honoring miners and advocating for a just energy transition.
On December 2, 2024, President Andrzej Duda joined the St. Barbara’s Day celebrations at the Wieliczka Salt Mine, paying tribute to Polish miners’ courage and dedication. He emphasized that mining is deeply rooted in Polish history and culture, acknowledging the immense risks and sacrifices associated with the profession. The President honored the memory of 15 miners who lost their lives this year, offering condolences to their families.
A Call for Just Transition
Addressing the global shift toward renewable energy, President Duda reiterated Poland’s commitment to the “Just Transition” principle, introduced at COP24 in Katowice. He stressed the importance of balancing environmental goals with the well-being of workers and their families. The President warned against accelerating coal phase-out deadlines, urging pragmatic timelines to ensure the livelihoods of over 70,000 mining industry workers.
The Way Forward
President Duda highlighted the need for a gradual energy transition, aligned with Poland’s 2049 coal phase-out agreement. He called for policies that support workers and their communities, ensuring economic stability during this transformative period.
The event reinforced Poland’s dedication to preserving its mining heritage while embracing sustainable energy solutions.