Problems of Historical Memory in Polish–Ukrainian Relations

The dynamics of modern Polish–Ukrainian relations gives reason to speak not only about changes in the dialogue of the two countries but also about a partial change in its political agenda. In accordance with the position of the new Ukrainian administration, the historical reconciliation of Warsaw and Kiev may be achieved under observance of a number of conditions. First, the presence of negative and painful topics in the information field and the political discourse of both countries should be either excluded or drastically limited. Secondly, under any opportunity it is necessary to focus public attention on those points of the past that may be presented as a visible evidence of the convergence of Poland and Ukraine. The most convenient and advantageous theme in this situation is to combat the power of imperial and totalitarian regimes, personified mainly by Moscow. At the same time a “breakthrough” in bilateral relations declared by top political figures becomes rather ephemeral in the light of constant delays characterizing Warsaw attitude to the problem of “Ukrainian memorable places” and leaving Kiev with less desire to go to unilateral concessions.