Poland, with its rapidly expanding economy and its rising importance in European security affairs, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Europe. The country’s political trajectory largely depends on the decision-making of the central coalition led by Donald Tusk, currently facing difficulties in mitigating the influential and suppressive legacy left by its predecessor party, the right-wing nationalist Law and Justice.
In parallel, the political landscape of Poland’s westerly neighbour, Germany, battles a unique cluster of issues. The government is struggling with unpopularity, an economic downturn, and mounting disagreements centred around conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, leading to an overall crisis in confidence. Furthermore, analysis of these political and societal tensions in both Poland and Germany is provided by Hugh Linehan in the Inside Politics podcast, featuring discussions with Derek Scally, the Berlin Correspondent for the Irish Times.