The parliamentary elections in Poland on October 15, 2023 marked a turning point in the country's political landscape. Despite the high election result of the PiS-led coalition, the opposition won a majority of votes. The formation of a new governing coalition signals a change in Poland's political culture.
This paper was inspired by the results of a roundtable shortly after the election day, at which experts from business, politics and think tanks discussed the parliamentary elections in Poland and their possible political and economic consequences for German-Polish relations. It aims to provide strategic impetus for state actors in Germany to strengthen relations with Poland and prepare for a period of change.
Recommendations for a new Poland strategy include the revitalization of the Weimar Triangle, a proactive approach to Poland on an equal footing and the recognition of political changes in the country. In terms of European policy, Berlin should above all look for synergies with Warsaw and prioritize greater consideration of the perspectives of Central East European partners.