Asymmetry without Centre and Periphery
The Unreconciled German-Polish Relationship
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
The relationship between Germany and Poland was long considered one of centre and periphery. Bilateral reconciliation, the transformation of the Polish economy and politics, as well as embedment in European integration were supposed to lead successively to overcoming developmental differences and enabling the convergence of both countries. This model is obsolete. In economic, European, and security policy, Poland is now pursuing its own interests, and these collide with those of Germany. German-Polish relations are characterized by “strategic asymmetries”. Russia’s war against Ukraine is reminding both “central European powers” what is at stake: the security of Europe.
(Osteuropa 1-2/2023, pp. 143–153)