Poland

Conscription: No (since 2009).

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict: Signed (13 Feb 2002). Ratified (7 Apr 2005).
Voluntary recruitment age: 18.
Conscientious objection recognised for professional soldiers: No.
Military expenditure: 1.8% of GDP (data 2009).

Remarks:
1) The military education system comprised one military academy, two civil–military academies, two officer high schools and eight schools for non-commissioned officers (NCOs) following reorganization in 2001 and 2002. There were also six technical training centres for NCOs and junior military specialists.
2) There is no right to conscientious objection for professional soldiers.

Recommendations:
1) Stop military training and abolish military schools for persons aged under 18.
2) Recognise the right to conscientious objection for professional soldiers.