Uprowadzenie

Uprowadzenie is a Polish term referring to the act of taking a person away from their usual place of residence or custody against their will, typically by force, threat, deception, or coercion. The word is formed from the prefix u- (away) and prowadzić (to lead), conveying the sense of leading someone away. In everyday language, it is used as an equivalent of abduction or kidnapping, particularly when the victim is a child or someone under guardianship.

In Polish criminal law, uprowadzenie is treated as an offense involving unlawful removal or detention of a person and deprivation of liberty. The act can be committed by force, deceit, or threat and is punishable. The severity of penalties depends on factors such as the victim's age, the use of violence or deception, the duration of detention, and the motive (for example, ransom, exploitation, or separation from guardians). Abduction of a minor is typically subject to heavier sanctions.

In public discourse, uprowadzenie is often equated with kidnapping, but legal texts may distinguish between terms, and the precise definitions can vary by jurisdiction and over time. The term is also used in family law contexts to describe unlawful removal of a child in custody disputes.

See also: Polish Penal Code; Abduction; Kidnapping.