The article presents main assumptions about self-defence, particularly trainings aimed at educating women, with special focus on actions initiated by the City Guard in Toruń. The Jestem bezpieczna [I Am Safe] self-defence courses for women, organized since 2006, are an important element in strengthening individual security of female residents of Toruń. Although at times such courses are subject to criticism, they have their undeniable advantages, which are specified in this article.

The article recounts the changes in the security perception of Poles after the outbreak of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Upon utilisation of comparative empirical research carried out in 2020 and 2021, using the diagnostic survey method with the survey techniques, the conclusion confirmed that Poles’ sense of security decreased in 2020 and 2021. According to the respondents’ answers, the most frequent explanation for declining security perception coincides with the threat of contracting the coronavirus. Those include losing a job due to the restrictions introduced in economic activity, determined by the appearance of the coronavirus, and the introduction of restrictions on movement in connection with the occurrences of COVID-19. In addition, the study found that the respondents’ most frequently chosen methods of improving their sense of security include using personal protective equipment, avoiding contact with other people, and refraining from leaving their homes.

The sense of security is the subject of scientific research and is analyzed by various government institutions and non-governmental organizations. In the research context, it refers to both the subjective feeling of individual security and social security. The results of individual studies should be a source of inspiration for political decision-makers and people in power, both at the government and local levels, in the process of developing programs for shaping security in local communities. A high level of subjective sense of security directly affects the quality of social and individual life. In addition, test results can play an important role in assessing the accuracy of diagnosis, helping to identify the most important concerns of the individual and society. This information is necessary to effectively shape strategies aimed at improving the quality of life and safety of citizens.

Changes in Ukrainians’ sense of security during the war 2014 – 2023

Today’s world, with the ongoing war in Ukraine, shows that conflicts, both armed and low-intensity, are directed not only at killing and conquering territory, but also at destabilising state functions and exacerbating social disputes. The aim is to weaken the morale of enemy populations and to lower their sense of security. Combat and everyday traumatic situations negatively affect soldiers and civilians, their attitudes or behaviour. This article attempts to present the changes in the feeling of security of Ukrainians in the years 2014 – 2023 during the war with the Russian Federation. The author presents the views of renowned experts and research on the phenomenon. He identifies the factors influencing the lowering or strengthening of the sense of security during the ongoing conflict. He emphasises that the sense of security translates into the will not only to fight and win, but also to survive and thrive.