Changes in the Perception of Polish National Identity after the Transition

National identity is a sense of belonging to a national community, shaped by the culture, language, history, traditions, and values shared by its members. Poland's national identity can be explained by elements such as the Polish language, national symbols (the national anthem, flag, and coat of arms), culture and history, awareness of common origins and kinship, and a sense of belonging to the nation. Since the 1989 transition, the formation and transformation of Poland's national identity has been a complex process involving a mixture of tradition and modernity, as well as aspirations for the future. Many traditional elements of Polish national identity, such as language, culture, history, and family values, continue to play an important role. Since 1989, diverse perspectives on the meaning of “Polishness” (polskość) have emerged from various experiences and viewpoints on life. On the other hand, systemic change, European integration, and ethnic culture play an important role in shaping the identity of modern Poles. While Poland's national identity is dynamic and constantly evolving, its core — rooted in the history, culture, and language shared by Poles — remains unchanged, shaped by various factors such as language, culture, history, religion, and national symbols. It is necessary to maintain traditions while adapting to a changing world, and to establish priorities and achieve balance between these factors. The national identity of modern Poland is a complex phenomenon that evolves in response to the dynamic changes occurring in Poland and around the world.