Radziejowska and Fałkowski in conversation with 'Rzeczpospolita': History has torn Polish-German relations
The Pilecki Institute launches a series of discussions aimed at revitalizing Polish-German dialogue that has stagnated over the years.
The Pilecki Institute has initiated a series of meetings titled 'Berlin in Warsaw' to address the stagnation of the Polish-German dialogue that has persisted since the 1990s. The conversation, featuring insights from Radziejowska and Fałkowski, highlights the narrow scope of past discussions, historically dominated by specific circles engaged in Polish-German dialogue which did not engage the broader public. Despite significant changes in both countries since the fall of communism and EU expansion, the discussions have remained largely unchanged, leading to a sense of stagnation and ineffectiveness in current discourse.
One critical point raised in the discussion is the notion that while Polish topics hold weight in mainstream German discussions, the reverse is not true; Polish issues are often marginalized in broader German debates. This imbalance has contributed to a disconnect in the understanding and communication between the two nations, making it imperative to broaden the dialogue to include a wider array of perspectives and participants.
By launching this series, the Pilecki Institute seeks to invigorate the dialogue, moving beyond previous frameworks and inviting more diverse voices into the conversation. This effort is not only significant for improving bilateral relations but also essential for cultivating a more comprehensive understanding of each other's historical narratives and current socio-political contexts.