Poland is gaining widespread recognition in international media for its impressive economic growth, stable democracy, and increasing geopolitical importance. Leading newspapers from France, the UK, and Spain highlight Poland’s emergence as a key player in Europe, noting its rapid development, strong alliances, and diminishing wealth gap with Western European countries. Below are some key insights from the foreign press from a few weeks. 

Le Monde : Poland as a “New Key Player in Europe” 

The French newspaper Le Monde names Poland as a “new key player in Europe,” emphasizing its significant economic growth and evolving geopolitical role. The paper highlights how Poland’s development has positioned it at the forefront of Central Europe, marking its emergence as an influential economic power. 

Despite its successes, Poland faces growing disappointment with its Weimar Triangle partners, Germany and France, due to their internal political challenges. The newspaper points out that relations with Germany have particularly soured, attributed to Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s perceived indifference. 

Additionally, Le Monde notes that Poland has solidified its role as a “faithful ally of the United States,” while remaining concerned about the upcoming U.S. presidential election. This combination of economic advancement and changing diplomatic dynamics underscores Poland’s rising influence in Europe. 

Le Figaro : Poland as a Model of a Well-Functioning Democracy and Growing Economy 

On the other hand, Le Figaro portrays Poland as a country with a well-functioning democracy and a rapidly growing economy. According to the article, Poland has become one of the key pillars of the European Union. The newspaper forecasts that Poland will soon become the fourth-largest economy in the EU, surpassing the Netherlands and Spain. Poland’s defense spending, which now exceeds 4% of GDP, is also highlighted, making the country one of the most important allies within NATO. 

On the social front, Le Figaro emphasizes that Poland does not face major social issues and notes the effective integration of immigrants, particularly from Ukraine. The article also mentions the civic activity and strong organization of Polish citizens, which have contributed positively to the country’s development. 

The Times : Poland Catching Up with the British Economy 

Edward Lucas, a well-known British columnist, in his article for The Times, highlights Poland’s impressive economic growth, which has multiplied ninefold since 1989. Poland’s national income per capita, measured in purchasing power parity, is approaching $50,000, drawing closer to the UK’s level. 

Lucas underscores that this rapid economic development is driven by decades of nearly uninterrupted growth, fueled by foreign investment and a strong Polish work ethic. Poland is gradually closing the wealth gap with Germany, reducing the need for Poles to migrate to Western Europe. 

El Economista : Poland as a steamroller pushing ahead at full speed 

Poland’s remarkable economic rise continues to attract attention. Hispanic newspaper El Economista compares its progress to “a steamroller pushing ahead at full speed”. Once lagging behind countries like Venezuela and Argentina in terms of GDP per capita, Poland is now on the cusp of overtaking Spain, and by the end of this decade, it could be closing in on Italy. 

The portal also highlights Poland’s dramatic transformation during the 1990s, which laid the foundation for sustained economic growth. Strategic foreign investments, EU funds, and access to major markets after joining the European Union have been key factors in what the portal describes as Poland’s “unprecedented economic success.” 

Poland’s Growing Role in Europe and Beyond  

With continued investment, strong governance, and a clear vision for the future, Poland is not only closing the economic gap with Western Europe but is also positioning itself as a leading voice in European politics, as we can read in many international media. As Poland’s influence continues to rise, it is set to become one of the key powers shaping Europe’s future direction in both economic and security matters.

If you want to know more about the Polish economy, check out our section below where we cover all the topics related to this country!