Croatians’ Perspectives on Poland: Cultural Affinities and Political Realities

While Poland and Croatia share several cultural and historical ties, there are also notable differences in their current political landscapes. Our northern neighbors, the Poles, are often perceived as a smaller or larger mirror image of Croatia in many ways, reflecting deep Catholic roots and traditional values.

Cultural Affinities and Political Divisions

Both countries are deeply rooted in Catholicism and have a strong connection to traditional values. However, these similarities are often overshadowed by internal divisions, which persist even after the communist era. In Croatia, the left-wing party, which currently holds the mayorship and majority in the Zagreb city council, proposed naming a street after a communist female leader involved in suppressing democratic tendencies during the Croatian Spring movement in the 1970s/1980s. Although the proposal was not passed, it highlights the complex mindset of some Croatian leftists today. Right-wing politicians often look to Poland as a model for standing up against EU establishment and identity politics, particularly in the context of illegal immigration.

Historical Similarities and Territorial Changes

Despite their divergent paths during World War II, Poland and Croatia share historical similarities. For instance, in 1939, both countries were larger than their post-war territories. In Poland's case, the country lost land in the east and gained land in the west, which was previously part of Germany and had a significant Croatian ethnic majority. In Croatia, similar territorial changes took place following World War II. The post-war atrocities in Croatia, including the civil war between Usta?e and the communist resistance, have left lasting effects on the country's relations with its eastern neighbors.

Contemporary Political Relations and International Alliances

Both Poland and Croatia support Ukraine against Russian aggression, although the Croatian president's stance is more aligned with that of Hungary's government rather than having real power. In 2022, Russian Defense Ministry reports indicated that Polish volunteers (referred to as "mercenaries" by the Kremlin) were the most numerous in Ukraine, followed by Croatians. This highlights the ongoing commitment of both countries to international peace and stability.

Strategic Alignments in Europe

Poland, often referred to as a key ally of the United States in continental Europe, plays a pivotal role among new EU/NATO members. In contrast, Croatia's strategic alignment is more pronounced in the always-brewing Southeast European region. This distinction underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics and regional alliances in Europe.

Conclusion

In summary, Croatia and Poland share numerous historical and cultural ties, but they also face different political realities. While both countries have faced internal divisions and territorial changes, they continue to support each other in global matters, particularly in the context of security and international relations. Understanding these dynamics provides a deeper insight into the complex relationship between these two culturally similar nations.