The Evolution of Poland’s Perspective on the Volhynian Massacre
The Evolution of Poland’s Perspective on the Volhynian Massacre

Summary/Abstract: The article has two purposes. The first is to analyse how Polish perceptions of the Volhynian Massacre have changed over the past two decades. The second is to show the prevailing attitudes of the general public with regard to Poland’s historical policy towards Ukraine. To gain insight into the evolution of public perceptions, the author drew upon existing data: the results of nationwide surveys conducted by the Centre for Public Opinion Research, data derived from academic studies, and statistics published by the country’s leading media outlets. The author’s thesis is that, over time, awareness of the 1943 events has gradually spread and has become an integral part of the nation’s collective memory. To achieve the second objective, an original survey on a representative sample of adult Poles proved necessary. The results indicate that the institutions of the Polish state are now perceived as having a notable role in preserving the memory of the Massacre. However, the majority of poll respondents believe that the authorities could do more to facilitate Polish-Ukrainian reconciliation. While respondents value symbolic gestures such as public acts of expiation, the prevailing view is that the key to mutual understanding is closer cooperation between professionals, namely, Polish and Ukrainian historians.

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