Historian Prof. Bingen to Discuss German-Polish Relations and Geopolitics

On October 28, 2025, Prof. Dr. Dieter Bingen, a renowned historian and political scientist, will deliver a lecture and lead a discussion on German-Polish relations and geopolitics. The event, organized by the Bergisch Gladbach - Pszczyna Partnership Association, will take place at 6:00 PM in the Great Council Chamber of Bergisch Gladbach City Hall. Admission is free, but registration is required by October 25 via email or website.

Prof. Bingen, previously director of the German Polish Institute in Darmstadt, will delve into the complex dynamics of German-Polish relations since 1989. Despite over 500 town twinning partnerships and active youth exchange, historical tensions persist, particularly regarding World War II reparations. President Karol Nawrocki and many Poles demand compensation, reflecting lingering trauma from German war crimes. Meanwhile, Germany and Poland remain close allies in security and defense, cooperating against common threats like Russia's war on Ukraine. However, political differences and historical disputes strain their relationship.

The lecture will also touch on the significant German minority in Poland (approx. 300,000) and the large population in Germany with Polish roots (approx. two million). Prof. Bingen's institute focuses on Polish history, politics, culture, society, and German-Polish relations, making him an ideal speaker for this event.

The upcoming lecture and discussion promise to provide valuable insights into the intricate balance of cooperation and challenge in German-Polish relations. With Poland being Germany's fifth-largest trading partner and over two million Poles learning German, understanding this relationship is crucial. The event is open to all, fostering closer ties between citizens of Bergisch Gladbach and Pszczyna, the partnership association's focus cities.