A model for democratic transition and European integration? Why does Poland matter?

Poland is the sixth largest country in the EU and plays an increasingly important role in European affairs. However, for many it remains largely invisible compared with other large European states. Why is this?

Looking at its history and legacy, Poland has witnessed some of most momentous events of the last century and in recent years has seen vast changes in its social, economic and political systems. 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of the collapse of communism in Poland and tenth since it joined the EU. Understanding developments in Poland can teach us important lessons about the past, present and future of contemporary Europe. Opposition to communism, the Polish transition to democracy and a market economy, how the country has dealt with its communist past, and its changing relationship with the EU all provide fascinating insights into the democratisation and European integration processes. At the same time, high levels of societal religiosity in an apparently secularising Europe and the importance of the Catholic Church have provided a distinctive backdrop ensuring that these processes have often worked themselves out in unique ways.

In this lecture, Professor Szczerbiak will draw upon his research on comparative central and East European politics, the impact of European integration on national politics, the party politics of Euroscepticism, and the politics of transitional justice, together with his expertise as a specialist in Polish political and social developments, to argue that observers of contemporary Europe need to pay more attention to Poland

This is an open public lecture and everyone is welcome to attend, but we do ask that you book your place as numbers are limited.