chocia¿ 20 z nich mia³o usprawiedliwienia. W czêci oficjalnej przemawia³ m.in. sekretarz PPR Zdzi... more chocia¿ 20 z nich mia³o usprawiedliwienia. W czêci oficjalnej przemawia³ m.in. sekretarz PPR Zdzis³aw Nocuñ, podkrelaj¹c jednoae obu partii bratnich. W drugiej czêci odczytano referat organizacyjny i gospodarczy, odby³a siê dyskusja nad nimi, a nastêpnie wybrano Komitet Powiatowy i delegatów na zjazd wojewódzki 1. Dwa dni póniej mia³o miejsce posiedzenie Klubu Radnych PPS zasiada-j¹cych w Powiatowej Radzie Narodowej. Omówiono porz¹dek obrad najbli¿szego spotkania i podjêto decyzje personalne. Postanowiono g³osowaae za wykluczeniem przedstawiciela PSL z PRN na rzecz przedstawicielki Ligi Kobiet. Zdecydowano o wycofaniu z Rady Boles³awa Nykla, jego miejsce mia³a zaj¹ae Halina Dêbnicka 2. Podczas zebrania PK 2 sierpnia Jan Eftymowicz z³o¿y³ rezygnacjê ze stanowiska przewodnicz¹cego MRN. Poniewa¿ jego nazwisko pominiêto
The topic of this article is the function of sport in Russia’s bilateral relations with the Balti... more The topic of this article is the function of sport in Russia’s bilateral relations with the Baltic States. The author attempts to define the goals which the Russian Federation wants to accomplish by using sport as a ‘soft power’ in relations with the Baltic States. The concept of the article is based on an analysis of three forms of sport politicisation described in the subject literature – as a collector (a carrier of certain values or ideas), a catalyst (a factor initiating processes or events) and a facilitator (the means facilitating communication and understanding). The examples provided as an illustration of the theses relate to the events that took place from 2002 to 2018. The source material consists predominantly of information obtained from online information portals, such as Delfi, RIA, Nowosti and Postimees. The analysis has showed that, in its relations with the Baltic States, Russia tries to use sport to strengthen its position and improve its image internationally. It...
The article analyzes the establishment and operations of the Russian-Lithuanian and Russian-Latvi... more The article analyzes the establishment and operations of the Russian-Lithuanian and Russian-Latvian History Committees as an instrument of historical policy that was initiated to promote bilateral relations between the Russian Federations, Lithuania and Latvia. In Russia and the Baltic states, historical policy is regarded as an important instrument of building national identity that is rooted in national symbols. The historical narrative adopted by Lithuania and Latvia is often at odds with Russian historical memory, which is why bilateral history committees were established to foster debate on controversial issues. The Russian-Lithuanian History Committee was created in 2006. The establishment of the Russian-Latvian History Committee was fraught with many problems, and the organization was founded only in 2011. Both committees suspended their operations upon the outbreak of the military conflict in Ukraine in 2014, but their activities were revived in 2017. The Russian-Lithuanian committee published two volumes of archival documents (in 2006 and 2013), whereas the Russian-Latvian committee was successful in accessing source documents from Russian archives. The committees stirred considerable controversy and criticism in all three countries. However, historical policy should rely on factual information and reliable research to ensure that historical facts are not manipulated for the needs of state-controlled propaganda.
The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of... more The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of the Russian Federation and the Baltic States. In Russian opinion, the establishment of joint commissions of historians was to reduce tensions on this line and improve the image of Russia abroad. Lithuania was the first of the Baltic countries to express a desire to dialogue with Russia on the common past – in 2006, the Joint Russian-Lithuanian was established. According to the declaration, the main goal of both committees was to activate scientific research, the conclusions of which could also be used in inter-state relations. The work of both committees was focused on historical events of the 20th century, and the main problem was the dispute over the interpretation of the seizure of the Baltic states by the USSR. In 2014, in connection with the events in Ukraine, Lithuania suspended the activities of the commission.
W Polsce i poza jej granicami. Media w XX i XXI wieku, 2014
W jedenastym numerze "Polityki" z marca 2012 r. ukazał się felieton Daniela Passenta zatytułowany... more W jedenastym numerze "Polityki" z marca 2012 r. ukazał się felieton Daniela Passenta zatytułowany "Oligarchowie i dysydenci". Autor pisze w nim m.in.: Sądząc po polskich mediach za wschodnią granicą żyją tylko oligarchowie, dyktatorzy i manifestanci. Nie ma ciekawych książek, dyskusji, ludzi, od których można się czegoś nauczyć 1. Tę opinię autor sformułował na podstawie weekendowego wydania dwóch największych dzienników-"Gazety Wyborczej" i "Rzeczpospolitej", których publikacje jego zdaniem roztaczają przed polskimi czytelnikami obraz rosyjskiej wielkiej smuty-straszą Putinem, służbami specjalnymi, łamaniem praw człowieka i oligarchami. Czy refleksja znanego felietonisty jest słuszna? Jaki obraz Rosji faktycznie kreują polskie media? Czy przedstawiają ją jako państwo mafijne, w którym wąskie grupy ludzi dopuszczają się grabieży, wybory są farsą, a demokracja jedynie fasadą skrywającą autorytarne oblicze Kremla? Celem niniejszego artykułu jest próba zestawienia i porównania tego, co na temat Rosji ukazało się w roku 2012 na łamach dwóch najpoczytniejszych tygodników opinii-"Polityki" i "Gościa Niedzielnego". "Polityka" ukazuje się od 1957 roku. Redakcja pisma mieści się w Warszawie. Na łamach tygodnika ukazują się artykuły komentujące wydarzenia polityczne, gospodarcze,
This article is concerned with the influence of the issue of environmental safety in the Arctic o... more This article is concerned with the influence of the issue of environmental safety in the Arctic on the relations between the Kingdom of Norway and the Russian Federation. Basic documents that determine the environmental protection policy of the two countries as well as the areas of the most visible bilateral collaboration (marine resources conservation in the Arctic, ensuring nuclear safety in the region, combating air pollution, eliminationof chemical weapons) have been discussed. Additionally, the actions taken by the governments in Moscow and Oslo for ensuring environmental safety in the Arctic have been analyzed.
Polityka bezpieczeństwa w regionie Azji i Pacyfiku, 2016
Russian-Japanese relations in the 21st century have been affected by numerous historical grievanc... more Russian-Japanese relations in the 21st century have been affected by numerous historical grievances and a different perception of international security in the region. Military cooperation had never been of major importance in these relations. However, during the presidencies of Vladimir Putin and Dmitry Medvedev certain progress in that matter was noticeable. That was in a substantial way dependent on the political relations between Tokyo and Moscow – different kinds of frictions and contradictions obviously affected negatively the intensity of the military cooperation. Despite the visible progress such cooperation has not achieved the level when it could influence security in the region and both the countries are still seeking strategic partners elsewhere. Perhaps the emergence of new risks will provide a stimulus to the intensification of the military cooperation.
The aim of this article is to present aspects of Russian historical policy considering Russian-La... more The aim of this article is to present aspects of Russian historical policy considering Russian-Latvian disputes over the interpretations of the events of the Second World War, whose symbols are the monuments commemorating Soviet soldiers. The Monument of the Liberators of Riga, standing in the town centre, is the most controversial one. However, other memorials are also problematic. Some politicians and Latvian inhabitants consider them symbols of Soviet occupation, which in extreme cases leads to the desecration of cemeteries or destruction of monuments. The harsh reactions of Russia evoke attempts to commemorate "participants in the war of independence"- in fact soldiers of the Latvian SS Legion.
Czarny Ląd i świat arabski. Siła argumentu czy argument siły?, 2016
The topic of this article is the situation of Christians living in Syria after the outbreak of th... more The topic of this article is the situation of Christians living in Syria after the outbreak of the Arab Spring. A large number of Christians were forced to leave their place of living because of the armed conflict, the rising atmosphere of fundamentalism and the seizure of power by the radical Islamic groups. The numerous cases of direct attempts on the Christians’ lives and property, kidnappings, rapes, murders, enforced conversions and also the destruction of churches and cemeteries have taken place.
Władze komunistyczne wobec ludności niemieckiej w Polsce w latach 1945-1989, 2016
The article presents the situation of the German population of the Kętrzyn District from mid-1945... more The article presents the situation of the German population of the Kętrzyn District from mid-1945 until the end of 1947, with particular focus on displacement actions and the relations of the German community with Polish authorities and other inhabitants of the district. The authorities had neither the possibility nor the willingness to ensure them safety. They were treated as a cheap workforce, malnourished and forced out from their houses by incoming Polish settlers, who despised them and treated them with hostility. They were invigilated by the District Public Security Bureau and terrorised by soldiers of Red Army and Polish services responsible for safety at the area of the district. Most of them wanted to leave for Germany as soon as possible. Source material, on the basis of which this sketch was created, consist mainly of documents draw up in the District Public Security Office in Kętrzyn, being part of resources of IPN (Instytut Pamięci Narodowej – The Institute of National Remembrance) in Białystok.
Ewolucja systemów bezpieczeństwa. Od Bliskiego Wschodu do Oceanii, 2017
The aim of this article is to describe Russian-Indian military cooperation in the 21st century. I... more The aim of this article is to describe Russian-Indian military cooperation in the 21st century. India is the largest weapon importer in the world, whereas Russia is the second largest weapon exporter. Since the very beginning of the country’s existence, Indian army has been dependent on the equipment purchased from the USSR , later the Russian Federation. At present, according to various estimations ordnance of Soviet/Russian origin constitutes 60-80% of the Indian armed forces ordnance. The confirmation of the cooperation is INDRA programme in which joint military exercises between Russia and India have taken place since 2003. An important aspect of the cooperation is also the cooperation in the scientific research sector and joint investments in the arms industry. However, in recent years India has tried to diversify its weapon supplies and has been successfully developing its own defence industry. In 2014 Americans, for the first time in history, supplied India with ordnance of worth higher than the Russian supplies. In this situation the question of the potential change in the direction of the Indian defence policy arises.
Afryka – Europa Środkowa i Wschodnia. Historia relacji, stan obecny i perspektywy rozwoju, 2017
Egypt is currently one of the most important partners od the Russian Federacy on the Africa conti... more Egypt is currently one of the most important partners od the Russian Federacy on the Africa continent. In 2009, a strategic partnership agreement was signed between the two countries. Cooperation develops on many levels. Russians are the largest group of tourists visiting the country on the Nile. This paper is an attempt to describe chronological order Russian-Egyptian relations from the end of the 18th century to the outbreak of the First World War. The author focuses on the diplomatic and political dimension of mutual relations, although their economic, cultural, scientific and religious aspects deserve special attention. The aim of the author was to present the development of bilateral relations and an attempt to answer the question of the goals of Russian involvement in the Nile and the place of Egypt in Petersburg’s foreign policy in the period under consideration.
The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of... more The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of the Russian Federation and the Baltic States. In Russian opinion, the establishment of joint commissions of historians was to reduce tensions on this line and improve the image of Russia abroad. Lithuania was the first of the Baltic countries to express a desire to dialogue with Russia on the common past – in 2006, the Joint Russian-Lithuanian was established. According to the declaration, the main goal of both committees was to activate scientific research, the conclusions of which could also be used in inter-state relations. The work of both committees was focused on historical events of the 20th century, and the main problem was the dispute over the interpretation of the seizure of the Baltic states by the USSR. In 2014, in connection with the events in Ukraine, Lithuania suspended the activities of the commission.
Libris serviens: Studia ofiarowane Profesor Zoi Jaroszewicz-Pieresławcew w czterdziestolecie pracy zawodowej, 2020
Kolejną odsłoną „sporu o historię” stała się kwestia obecności na uroczystościach 9 maja 2005 r. ... more Kolejną odsłoną „sporu o historię” stała się kwestia obecności na uroczystościach 9 maja 2005 r. w Moskwie. Kiedy prezydent Putin zapraszał głowy państw, których obywatele brali udział w II wojnie światowej, nie pominął także prezydentów Litwy, Łotwy i Estonii. Ale jak wielokrotnie podkreślali tamtejsi politycy – zakończenie wojny nie przyniosło im wolności, tylko zmianę okupanta – z niemieckiego na radzieckiego. Dlatego też w krajach tych toczyła się ożywiona dyskusja, czy prezydenci powinni wziąć udział w obchodach.
"The Year of Russia" in China and "Year of China" in Russia were enterprises that aimed at improv... more "The Year of Russia" in China and "Year of China" in Russia were enterprises that aimed at improvement in bilateral cooperation in various field. During the presidency of Vladimir Putin China became one of the strategic partners od Russia. That was the source of numerous political, military, economic and also cultural contacts. The actions described in the article above all contributed to intensification of the trade exchange, but also mutual presentation of cultures, art, and traditions of both countries. A lot of the actions performed were of symbolic and propagandist nature. The enterprises undertaken were accompanied by the atmosphere of “friendship and partnership” which was emphasized at every turn. Obviously, Russia-Chinese relations are not free problems – tensions, hostilities or antagonism in number of fields, but in should be emphasized that both sides put a lot of effort to develop harmoniously.
Problemy bezpieczeństwa Bliskiego Wschodu i Północnej Afryki (MENA), 2016
Przedmiotem niniejszego szkicu jest prezentacja stosunków radziecko-marokańskich w aspekcie polit... more Przedmiotem niniejszego szkicu jest prezentacja stosunków radziecko-marokańskich w aspekcie politycznym, gospodarczym i wojskowym. Ramy czasowe wyznaczają lata 1958 (oficjalne nawiązanie stosunków dyplomatycznych) oraz 1989 (ostatnie spotkanie na wysokim szczeblu), choć Maroko znalazło się w orbicie zainteresowań radzieckich pod koniec II wojny światowej, w związku z funkcjonowaniem Międzynarodowej Strefy Tangeru (powołanej w 1923 r.). Celem rozważań jest przedstawienie rozwoju współpracy między ZSRR a Marokiem, jej głównych założeń i efektów. W ujęciu chronologicznym omówione zostały wizyty dyplomatyczne, podpisywane porozumienia i wystąpienia przedstawicieli obu państw na forum międzynarodowym. Opisywane fakty dają podstawę do wnioskowania na temat wagi, jaką Moskwa i Rabat przykładały do stosunków dwustronnych. Ważnym kontekstem są z jednej strony stosunki Maroka z USA i innymi państwami Zachodu, z drugiej zaś współpraca ZSRR z Algierią.
The rapprochement between Russia and Ethiopia at the end of the 19th century had been pursued by ... more The rapprochement between Russia and Ethiopia at the end of the 19th century had been pursued by both sides. After the opening of the Suez Canal, Ethiopia began to play an important role in the plans of the European powers. Russian strategic and economic rationale dictated the acquisition of footholds along maritime trade routes to connect the European part of the Russian Empire with the Far East. Access to a potentially important market was factored in as well. At the same time, Addis Abeba regarded St. Petersburg as a potential patron and supporter in its efforts to preserve Ethiopian independence. The article discusses religious, scientific, military and political activities that led to the establishment of official diplomatic relations between Russia and Ethiopia.
Conversations about setting the route of the border between the Russian Federation and the Republ... more Conversations about setting the route of the border between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Latvia have been carried since 1990 when Latvia regained independence. The demand for reinstatement of part of Abrene county (presently Pytalowo), 23000 sq km, which was incorporated to Pskowski district in 1944, constituted the main problem. Border agreement was negotiated and initiated in 1997, but signing the document was put off for various reasons. In 2004 the border between Russia and Latvia became at the same time the border of EU and NATO. On that account its formal regulation became very important issue. Russia, which was preparing for solemn celebrations of 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, cared about the presence of the leaders of Baltic countries in Moscow. Hence, the year 2005 was the time of increased diplomatic activity between Moscow and Riga. However, the question of border agreement was not dealt with definitely. What is more, the events which took place at that time delayed final solution to this problem even further.
The theme of the article is the election to the House of Representatives - the lowest chamber of ... more The theme of the article is the election to the House of Representatives - the lowest chamber of the Belorussian parliament - which took place in September 2012. Successively, all the issues connected with the election campaign, its course and results are presented, taking the opposition's situation into consideration. Most attention is paid to national and foreign observers' opinions concerning the proper compliance with democratic rules and procedures during the election. The election to the House of Representatives seems to be of little importance when it comes to the real political authority in Belarus. However, the election campaign seemed to be an opportunity for the opposition to fill an information gap among the voters. The Belorussian opposition's weaknesses, especially an inability to negotiate, are shown. The election results were not accepted by the UE and most of international organizations. This fact suggests that Minsk will still be isolated and dependent on Moscow's aid.
chocia¿ 20 z nich mia³o usprawiedliwienia. W czêci oficjalnej przemawia³ m.in. sekretarz PPR Zdzi... more chocia¿ 20 z nich mia³o usprawiedliwienia. W czêci oficjalnej przemawia³ m.in. sekretarz PPR Zdzis³aw Nocuñ, podkrelaj¹c jednoae obu partii bratnich. W drugiej czêci odczytano referat organizacyjny i gospodarczy, odby³a siê dyskusja nad nimi, a nastêpnie wybrano Komitet Powiatowy i delegatów na zjazd wojewódzki 1. Dwa dni póniej mia³o miejsce posiedzenie Klubu Radnych PPS zasiada-j¹cych w Powiatowej Radzie Narodowej. Omówiono porz¹dek obrad najbli¿szego spotkania i podjêto decyzje personalne. Postanowiono g³osowaae za wykluczeniem przedstawiciela PSL z PRN na rzecz przedstawicielki Ligi Kobiet. Zdecydowano o wycofaniu z Rady Boles³awa Nykla, jego miejsce mia³a zaj¹ae Halina Dêbnicka 2. Podczas zebrania PK 2 sierpnia Jan Eftymowicz z³o¿y³ rezygnacjê ze stanowiska przewodnicz¹cego MRN. Poniewa¿ jego nazwisko pominiêto
The topic of this article is the function of sport in Russia’s bilateral relations with the Balti... more The topic of this article is the function of sport in Russia’s bilateral relations with the Baltic States. The author attempts to define the goals which the Russian Federation wants to accomplish by using sport as a ‘soft power’ in relations with the Baltic States. The concept of the article is based on an analysis of three forms of sport politicisation described in the subject literature – as a collector (a carrier of certain values or ideas), a catalyst (a factor initiating processes or events) and a facilitator (the means facilitating communication and understanding). The examples provided as an illustration of the theses relate to the events that took place from 2002 to 2018. The source material consists predominantly of information obtained from online information portals, such as Delfi, RIA, Nowosti and Postimees. The analysis has showed that, in its relations with the Baltic States, Russia tries to use sport to strengthen its position and improve its image internationally. It...
The article analyzes the establishment and operations of the Russian-Lithuanian and Russian-Latvi... more The article analyzes the establishment and operations of the Russian-Lithuanian and Russian-Latvian History Committees as an instrument of historical policy that was initiated to promote bilateral relations between the Russian Federations, Lithuania and Latvia. In Russia and the Baltic states, historical policy is regarded as an important instrument of building national identity that is rooted in national symbols. The historical narrative adopted by Lithuania and Latvia is often at odds with Russian historical memory, which is why bilateral history committees were established to foster debate on controversial issues. The Russian-Lithuanian History Committee was created in 2006. The establishment of the Russian-Latvian History Committee was fraught with many problems, and the organization was founded only in 2011. Both committees suspended their operations upon the outbreak of the military conflict in Ukraine in 2014, but their activities were revived in 2017. The Russian-Lithuanian committee published two volumes of archival documents (in 2006 and 2013), whereas the Russian-Latvian committee was successful in accessing source documents from Russian archives. The committees stirred considerable controversy and criticism in all three countries. However, historical policy should rely on factual information and reliable research to ensure that historical facts are not manipulated for the needs of state-controlled propaganda.
The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of... more The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of the Russian Federation and the Baltic States. In Russian opinion, the establishment of joint commissions of historians was to reduce tensions on this line and improve the image of Russia abroad. Lithuania was the first of the Baltic countries to express a desire to dialogue with Russia on the common past – in 2006, the Joint Russian-Lithuanian was established. According to the declaration, the main goal of both committees was to activate scientific research, the conclusions of which could also be used in inter-state relations. The work of both committees was focused on historical events of the 20th century, and the main problem was the dispute over the interpretation of the seizure of the Baltic states by the USSR. In 2014, in connection with the events in Ukraine, Lithuania suspended the activities of the commission.
W Polsce i poza jej granicami. Media w XX i XXI wieku, 2014
W jedenastym numerze "Polityki" z marca 2012 r. ukazał się felieton Daniela Passenta zatytułowany... more W jedenastym numerze "Polityki" z marca 2012 r. ukazał się felieton Daniela Passenta zatytułowany "Oligarchowie i dysydenci". Autor pisze w nim m.in.: Sądząc po polskich mediach za wschodnią granicą żyją tylko oligarchowie, dyktatorzy i manifestanci. Nie ma ciekawych książek, dyskusji, ludzi, od których można się czegoś nauczyć 1. Tę opinię autor sformułował na podstawie weekendowego wydania dwóch największych dzienników-"Gazety Wyborczej" i "Rzeczpospolitej", których publikacje jego zdaniem roztaczają przed polskimi czytelnikami obraz rosyjskiej wielkiej smuty-straszą Putinem, służbami specjalnymi, łamaniem praw człowieka i oligarchami. Czy refleksja znanego felietonisty jest słuszna? Jaki obraz Rosji faktycznie kreują polskie media? Czy przedstawiają ją jako państwo mafijne, w którym wąskie grupy ludzi dopuszczają się grabieży, wybory są farsą, a demokracja jedynie fasadą skrywającą autorytarne oblicze Kremla? Celem niniejszego artykułu jest próba zestawienia i porównania tego, co na temat Rosji ukazało się w roku 2012 na łamach dwóch najpoczytniejszych tygodników opinii-"Polityki" i "Gościa Niedzielnego". "Polityka" ukazuje się od 1957 roku. Redakcja pisma mieści się w Warszawie. Na łamach tygodnika ukazują się artykuły komentujące wydarzenia polityczne, gospodarcze,
This article is concerned with the influence of the issue of environmental safety in the Arctic o... more This article is concerned with the influence of the issue of environmental safety in the Arctic on the relations between the Kingdom of Norway and the Russian Federation. Basic documents that determine the environmental protection policy of the two countries as well as the areas of the most visible bilateral collaboration (marine resources conservation in the Arctic, ensuring nuclear safety in the region, combating air pollution, eliminationof chemical weapons) have been discussed. Additionally, the actions taken by the governments in Moscow and Oslo for ensuring environmental safety in the Arctic have been analyzed.
Polityka bezpieczeństwa w regionie Azji i Pacyfiku, 2016
Russian-Japanese relations in the 21st century have been affected by numerous historical grievanc... more Russian-Japanese relations in the 21st century have been affected by numerous historical grievances and a different perception of international security in the region. Military cooperation had never been of major importance in these relations. However, during the presidencies of Vladimir Putin and Dmitry Medvedev certain progress in that matter was noticeable. That was in a substantial way dependent on the political relations between Tokyo and Moscow – different kinds of frictions and contradictions obviously affected negatively the intensity of the military cooperation. Despite the visible progress such cooperation has not achieved the level when it could influence security in the region and both the countries are still seeking strategic partners elsewhere. Perhaps the emergence of new risks will provide a stimulus to the intensification of the military cooperation.
The aim of this article is to present aspects of Russian historical policy considering Russian-La... more The aim of this article is to present aspects of Russian historical policy considering Russian-Latvian disputes over the interpretations of the events of the Second World War, whose symbols are the monuments commemorating Soviet soldiers. The Monument of the Liberators of Riga, standing in the town centre, is the most controversial one. However, other memorials are also problematic. Some politicians and Latvian inhabitants consider them symbols of Soviet occupation, which in extreme cases leads to the desecration of cemeteries or destruction of monuments. The harsh reactions of Russia evoke attempts to commemorate "participants in the war of independence"- in fact soldiers of the Latvian SS Legion.
Czarny Ląd i świat arabski. Siła argumentu czy argument siły?, 2016
The topic of this article is the situation of Christians living in Syria after the outbreak of th... more The topic of this article is the situation of Christians living in Syria after the outbreak of the Arab Spring. A large number of Christians were forced to leave their place of living because of the armed conflict, the rising atmosphere of fundamentalism and the seizure of power by the radical Islamic groups. The numerous cases of direct attempts on the Christians’ lives and property, kidnappings, rapes, murders, enforced conversions and also the destruction of churches and cemeteries have taken place.
Władze komunistyczne wobec ludności niemieckiej w Polsce w latach 1945-1989, 2016
The article presents the situation of the German population of the Kętrzyn District from mid-1945... more The article presents the situation of the German population of the Kętrzyn District from mid-1945 until the end of 1947, with particular focus on displacement actions and the relations of the German community with Polish authorities and other inhabitants of the district. The authorities had neither the possibility nor the willingness to ensure them safety. They were treated as a cheap workforce, malnourished and forced out from their houses by incoming Polish settlers, who despised them and treated them with hostility. They were invigilated by the District Public Security Bureau and terrorised by soldiers of Red Army and Polish services responsible for safety at the area of the district. Most of them wanted to leave for Germany as soon as possible. Source material, on the basis of which this sketch was created, consist mainly of documents draw up in the District Public Security Office in Kętrzyn, being part of resources of IPN (Instytut Pamięci Narodowej – The Institute of National Remembrance) in Białystok.
Ewolucja systemów bezpieczeństwa. Od Bliskiego Wschodu do Oceanii, 2017
The aim of this article is to describe Russian-Indian military cooperation in the 21st century. I... more The aim of this article is to describe Russian-Indian military cooperation in the 21st century. India is the largest weapon importer in the world, whereas Russia is the second largest weapon exporter. Since the very beginning of the country’s existence, Indian army has been dependent on the equipment purchased from the USSR , later the Russian Federation. At present, according to various estimations ordnance of Soviet/Russian origin constitutes 60-80% of the Indian armed forces ordnance. The confirmation of the cooperation is INDRA programme in which joint military exercises between Russia and India have taken place since 2003. An important aspect of the cooperation is also the cooperation in the scientific research sector and joint investments in the arms industry. However, in recent years India has tried to diversify its weapon supplies and has been successfully developing its own defence industry. In 2014 Americans, for the first time in history, supplied India with ordnance of worth higher than the Russian supplies. In this situation the question of the potential change in the direction of the Indian defence policy arises.
Afryka – Europa Środkowa i Wschodnia. Historia relacji, stan obecny i perspektywy rozwoju, 2017
Egypt is currently one of the most important partners od the Russian Federacy on the Africa conti... more Egypt is currently one of the most important partners od the Russian Federacy on the Africa continent. In 2009, a strategic partnership agreement was signed between the two countries. Cooperation develops on many levels. Russians are the largest group of tourists visiting the country on the Nile. This paper is an attempt to describe chronological order Russian-Egyptian relations from the end of the 18th century to the outbreak of the First World War. The author focuses on the diplomatic and political dimension of mutual relations, although their economic, cultural, scientific and religious aspects deserve special attention. The aim of the author was to present the development of bilateral relations and an attempt to answer the question of the goals of Russian involvement in the Nile and the place of Egypt in Petersburg’s foreign policy in the period under consideration.
The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of... more The issues of the assessment of the common past play an important role in the mutual relations of the Russian Federation and the Baltic States. In Russian opinion, the establishment of joint commissions of historians was to reduce tensions on this line and improve the image of Russia abroad. Lithuania was the first of the Baltic countries to express a desire to dialogue with Russia on the common past – in 2006, the Joint Russian-Lithuanian was established. According to the declaration, the main goal of both committees was to activate scientific research, the conclusions of which could also be used in inter-state relations. The work of both committees was focused on historical events of the 20th century, and the main problem was the dispute over the interpretation of the seizure of the Baltic states by the USSR. In 2014, in connection with the events in Ukraine, Lithuania suspended the activities of the commission.
Libris serviens: Studia ofiarowane Profesor Zoi Jaroszewicz-Pieresławcew w czterdziestolecie pracy zawodowej, 2020
Kolejną odsłoną „sporu o historię” stała się kwestia obecności na uroczystościach 9 maja 2005 r. ... more Kolejną odsłoną „sporu o historię” stała się kwestia obecności na uroczystościach 9 maja 2005 r. w Moskwie. Kiedy prezydent Putin zapraszał głowy państw, których obywatele brali udział w II wojnie światowej, nie pominął także prezydentów Litwy, Łotwy i Estonii. Ale jak wielokrotnie podkreślali tamtejsi politycy – zakończenie wojny nie przyniosło im wolności, tylko zmianę okupanta – z niemieckiego na radzieckiego. Dlatego też w krajach tych toczyła się ożywiona dyskusja, czy prezydenci powinni wziąć udział w obchodach.
"The Year of Russia" in China and "Year of China" in Russia were enterprises that aimed at improv... more "The Year of Russia" in China and "Year of China" in Russia were enterprises that aimed at improvement in bilateral cooperation in various field. During the presidency of Vladimir Putin China became one of the strategic partners od Russia. That was the source of numerous political, military, economic and also cultural contacts. The actions described in the article above all contributed to intensification of the trade exchange, but also mutual presentation of cultures, art, and traditions of both countries. A lot of the actions performed were of symbolic and propagandist nature. The enterprises undertaken were accompanied by the atmosphere of “friendship and partnership” which was emphasized at every turn. Obviously, Russia-Chinese relations are not free problems – tensions, hostilities or antagonism in number of fields, but in should be emphasized that both sides put a lot of effort to develop harmoniously.
Problemy bezpieczeństwa Bliskiego Wschodu i Północnej Afryki (MENA), 2016
Przedmiotem niniejszego szkicu jest prezentacja stosunków radziecko-marokańskich w aspekcie polit... more Przedmiotem niniejszego szkicu jest prezentacja stosunków radziecko-marokańskich w aspekcie politycznym, gospodarczym i wojskowym. Ramy czasowe wyznaczają lata 1958 (oficjalne nawiązanie stosunków dyplomatycznych) oraz 1989 (ostatnie spotkanie na wysokim szczeblu), choć Maroko znalazło się w orbicie zainteresowań radzieckich pod koniec II wojny światowej, w związku z funkcjonowaniem Międzynarodowej Strefy Tangeru (powołanej w 1923 r.). Celem rozważań jest przedstawienie rozwoju współpracy między ZSRR a Marokiem, jej głównych założeń i efektów. W ujęciu chronologicznym omówione zostały wizyty dyplomatyczne, podpisywane porozumienia i wystąpienia przedstawicieli obu państw na forum międzynarodowym. Opisywane fakty dają podstawę do wnioskowania na temat wagi, jaką Moskwa i Rabat przykładały do stosunków dwustronnych. Ważnym kontekstem są z jednej strony stosunki Maroka z USA i innymi państwami Zachodu, z drugiej zaś współpraca ZSRR z Algierią.
The rapprochement between Russia and Ethiopia at the end of the 19th century had been pursued by ... more The rapprochement between Russia and Ethiopia at the end of the 19th century had been pursued by both sides. After the opening of the Suez Canal, Ethiopia began to play an important role in the plans of the European powers. Russian strategic and economic rationale dictated the acquisition of footholds along maritime trade routes to connect the European part of the Russian Empire with the Far East. Access to a potentially important market was factored in as well. At the same time, Addis Abeba regarded St. Petersburg as a potential patron and supporter in its efforts to preserve Ethiopian independence. The article discusses religious, scientific, military and political activities that led to the establishment of official diplomatic relations between Russia and Ethiopia.
Conversations about setting the route of the border between the Russian Federation and the Republ... more Conversations about setting the route of the border between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Latvia have been carried since 1990 when Latvia regained independence. The demand for reinstatement of part of Abrene county (presently Pytalowo), 23000 sq km, which was incorporated to Pskowski district in 1944, constituted the main problem. Border agreement was negotiated and initiated in 1997, but signing the document was put off for various reasons. In 2004 the border between Russia and Latvia became at the same time the border of EU and NATO. On that account its formal regulation became very important issue. Russia, which was preparing for solemn celebrations of 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, cared about the presence of the leaders of Baltic countries in Moscow. Hence, the year 2005 was the time of increased diplomatic activity between Moscow and Riga. However, the question of border agreement was not dealt with definitely. What is more, the events which took place at that time delayed final solution to this problem even further.
The theme of the article is the election to the House of Representatives - the lowest chamber of ... more The theme of the article is the election to the House of Representatives - the lowest chamber of the Belorussian parliament - which took place in September 2012. Successively, all the issues connected with the election campaign, its course and results are presented, taking the opposition's situation into consideration. Most attention is paid to national and foreign observers' opinions concerning the proper compliance with democratic rules and procedures during the election. The election to the House of Representatives seems to be of little importance when it comes to the real political authority in Belarus. However, the election campaign seemed to be an opportunity for the opposition to fill an information gap among the voters. The Belorussian opposition's weaknesses, especially an inability to negotiate, are shown. The election results were not accepted by the UE and most of international organizations. This fact suggests that Minsk will still be isolated and dependent on Moscow's aid.
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Papers by Paweł Letko