Cultural cooperation Poland-Netherlands 2025-2028

Following the fall of communism in 1989, Poland's cultural infrastructure was reshaped with a strong civic and European orientation. With cities becoming engines of cultural innovation, Warsaw earned comparisons to Berlin, Wrocław was named European Capital of Culture in 2016, and Lublin will be in 2029. The last decade, however, saw increasing political pressure on cultural institutions under the Law and Justice (PiS) government. Cultural narratives often served conservative and nationalist agendas. The recent shift to less conservative government has brought a breath of fresh air: the church's influence is diminishing, and progressive values around gender, sexuality, and climate are gaining ground.

Although a new overarching cultural policy is still in development, a renewed sense of optimism is driving new energy and ambition in Poland's cultural sector. Artists and institutions are exploring new freedoms and are experimenting with new approaches. This period of transition presents an opportunity for international collaboration.

The Netherlands and Poland share a rich cultural history. Dutch Mennonites settled in Poland from the 16th century, shaping the Vistula landscape. Trade connected the Baltic and the Low Countries already since the 15th century. In WWII, the First Polish Armoured Division helped to liberate the Netherlands, while many Dutch were deported to German concentration camps in occupied Poland. The architectural legacy of Tylman van Gameren, the carillons of Gdańsk, and ongoing museum collaboration are all part of a broader cultural landscape that continues to connect the two countries.

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Warsaw plays a vital role in supporting Polish-Dutch cultural collaboration. It facilitates artistic exchange, funds strategic cultural projects, and serves as a connector between Dutch creatives and Polish institutions. In its work, the embassy prioritises values-driven collaboration, including freedom of expression, European solidarity, sustainability, and inclusivity.

The embassy fosters networks across disciplines. Whether through heritage partnerships, film programming, or local cultural initiatives, the embassy remains committed to a resilient and future-focused bilateral cultural relationship.

The Dutch embassy in Warsaw will continue to support artistic exchanges and visibility of Dutch culture in Poland. Key focus areas for Dutch artists, creatives and cultural entrepreneurs include the performing arts and film collaborations.

Secondly, the embassy is committed to nurturing cultural projects that commemorate shared history. This includes the role of General Maczek’s division in the liberation of the Netherlands and the memory of Dutch victims in Sobibór and Auschwitz. Projects that not only honor the past but also strengthen mutual understanding.

The rich shared heritage between the two countries extends beyond wartime. From early Dutch settlers to the architectural influence of Tylman van Gameren and the legacy of Marianne van Oranje, this historical depth provides fertile ground for museum and institutional partnerships.

Creative crossovers that align culture with sustainability, technology, and science are encouraged as well, particularly those that engage younger generations. As Poland modernises, there is increasing interest in circular design, digital innovation, and culture-driven urban development. Dutch expertise in these areas positions the kingdom as a valuable partner.

While major cities remain cultural centers, the embassy is keen to foster local-to-local collaborations in smaller or underserved regions. Special attention for Dutch artists and cultural entrepreneurs is given to Lower Silesia, which was heavily affected by floods in 2024, as well as to Lublin and its surroundings, in light of the city being named European Capital of Culture 2029. Engagements in the lead-up to 2029 could offer Dutch cultural professionals a strategic platform to expand visibility, collaborate internationally, and co-develop new cultural models.