In Kłodzko, Poland, entrepreneurs who suffered significant losses during last year’s flooding held a protest during a press briefing by the Minister for Flood Management, Marcin Kerowiński.
According to the broadcaster RMF24, the protesters criticized the state aid efforts, demanding transparent rules and clear solutions.
Participants carried banners with slogans such as, “We’re drowning in aid,” “The state promises, the entrepreneur goes bankrupt,” and “A wave of water, a wave of promises, no support.” They accused the government of failing to keep its promises, acting inconsistently, and creating bureaucratic obstacles.
The broadcaster noted that government statements claim affected entrepreneurs can access financial support, including low-interest loans with the possibility of up to 90% debt forgiveness. However, many entrepreneurs report receiving contradictory information. They state that, in practice, only the interest is forgiven, leaving the principal debt untouched.
Entrepreneurs are calling for the establishment of an expert committee to help adapt aid mechanisms to the actual needs of businesses. They also emphasize the need for compensation, asserting that the disaster occurred due to negligence by state authorities.
Protesters have warned that if their demands are not met, they will continue their demonstrations.
