The East in Poland’s foreign policy: Evolution of its significance and changing priorities

Abstract

The “Eastern dimension” of Poland’s foreign policy plays specific and significant role both in its external activity and in domestic political discourse. It is visible in the context of Poland’s relations with its Eastern European neighbours, in particular. But the role of other partners from the East has been significantly raising, especially since Poland joined the EU in 2004. The main aim of the paper is to analyze the most important features of Polish Eastern policy, as well as to present Polish “mainstream” elites’ perception on it. Quite broad consensus around Poland’s Eastern policy among its politicians, scholars, and experts was also highlighted in the article. Particular attention was given to Poland’s policy towards Russia. Refs 39.