Survey Reveals Reparations Remain Key Issue in Polish-German Relations

A recent survey conducted by the state-owned research institute CBOS in Warsaw has found that the majority of Polish citizens consider the current relationship between Poland and Germany to be moderate. According to the poll, 48 percent of respondents described bilateral ties as 'neither good nor bad.' This reflects a gradual improvement in sentiment, as 25 percent now view relations positively--an increase from 13 percent reported in the previous survey in August 2023. Conversely, only 18 percent regard the relationship as negative, a decrease of four percentage points.

Despite the recent uptick, the survey results remain far below levels recorded in earlier years. For example, in 2015, over half of those surveyed rated the relationship as good. The highest positive sentiment was observed in 1991, when 55 percent expressed favorable views. The period from 2017 to 2023 marked a noticeable downturn, during which fewer than 20 percent of Poles described the relationship as positive.

The research highlights that the topic of reparations for damages suffered during the Second World War is the most significant factor influencing Polish-German relations. When asked to identify the most pressing issue between the two countries, 21 percent cited reparations as their primary concern. Economic cooperation and migration issues followed, with each being named by 13 percent of respondents.

The question of reparations centers on Poland's demand for financial compensation for losses and destruction inflicted by Germany in World War II. When directly questioned on the matter, 63 percent of Poles supported the notion that their country should pursue reparations from Germany, up five percentage points from the previous year. Meanwhile, the percentage of those opposed to making such demands has dropped to 27 percent from 31 percent.

The survey also notes substantial differences in viewpoints along political lines. Among government opposition supporters, 85 percent are in favor of seeking reparations, compared to just 35 percent of those who back the current centrist government. This division underscores the political complexity surrounding the issue within Poland.

Over the years, the topic of war compensation has placed considerable strain on the relationship between Warsaw and Berlin. While the Polish government has consistently called for reparations, the German government and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier have rejected such claims. Recently, the matter has gained renewed focus as Poland's new President, Karol Nawrocki, has become a vocal advocate for reparations. He maintains that Poland is entitled to 1.3 trillion euros in compensation, referencing a 2022 report by a parliamentary commission as the basis for this figure.

As discussions continue, the issue of reparations remains a central challenge in Polish-German relations, shaping public opinion and influencing diplomatic engagement between the two neighboring countries.