In the article, Ewa Szadkowska addresses how fears regarding foreign ownership of land, especially by immigrants and individuals from Germany, have been used by right-wing politicians in Poland to rally support and build a narrative of defending Polish identity. The author points out that such fears often resurface during election cycles as politicians leverage them to strengthen their positions against opponents who are perceived as insufficiently protective of Polish interests.

Szudkowska elaborates on the legal barriers that exist for purchasing agricultural land in Poland, emphasizing that it often feels nearly impossible for non-farmers to acquire land. Laws enacted in the last decade sought to limit foreign purchases of agricultural land, requiring buyers to be individual farmers residing nearby. However, the underlying tensions and perceptions of national security tied to land ownership create a charged atmosphere where foreign buyers are vilified.

Ultimately, the piece reflects on the cyclical nature of these political narratives and their significant impact on policies regarding land use and ownership in Poland, as well as the broader implications for social cohesion in the face of growing nationalist sentiments. The discussion reveals the ongoing contest over land rights and the role of foreign influence as a scapegoat in political discourse.