Permanent Conflict and Alienation? - German-Polish relations put to the test

German-Polish relations are in a state of permanent conflict and mutual alienation. A triad of problem areas is currently straining the relationship: Warsaw’s demands for reparations, differences in reaction to Russia’s war against Ukraine and disagreements on European policy. With Polish parliamentary elections coming up in 2023, further escalations are to be expected on issues related to Germany.

Nevertheless, Poland is an important partner for Germany in the EU. After all, Poland is Germany’s fifth-largest trading partner and an important ally in Ukraine aid, energy policy and security cooperation. The question therefore arises as to how Germany intends to stabilise the bilateral relationship with Poland and what impact the conflict will have on the EU.

On this topic, we are pleased to welcome Freiherr Arndt Freytag von Loringhoven, former German Ambassador to Poland (2020 to 2022), as our guest.

Together with you and Baron Arndt Freytag von Loringhoven, we want to discuss the following and other questions: What is the current state of German-Polish relations? What interests is Germany pursuing with regard to Poland? Who are the „brakemen“ in Polish politics, who are actively seeking a good relationship with Germany? What is the alternative to relax or stabilise the situation? What could Germany’s strategic communication towards Poland look like? What interests does Germany represent in the economic showdown with Poland? To what extent can the Polish government’s accusation that Germany is not interested in Poland’s economic growth be understood?

We look forward to your participation. Please register by 01.03.2023. If you have any questions, please contact Darius Elahi or Antonia Marx.