A country in an information war: Poland's media between propaganda and diversity
Poland's media landscape reflects societal divisions. While the national-conservative government steadily expands its influence, investigative online platforms and international voices provide a much-needed counterweight.
Digital beacons of hope
Particularly in the online sphere, counterforces in journalism have established themselves in Poland. Platforms such as "Wirtualna Polska," "Onet," "Interia," and the online editions of major daily newspapers—for example, "Gazeta.pl"—offer remarkable quality journalism. They are owned by diverse entities, including the Springer publishing house, the Polish media group Agora, and other private actors. This diversity is a key factor in maintaining journalistic pluralism and a healthy, liberal public sphere.
Reliability from abroad: Deutsche Welle
Deutsche Welle plays a special role. As a public service broadcaster, but independent of the state, it brings German press perspectives into the Polish debate. Its content appears regularly on popular Polish online platforms and is perceived as credible and independent. Its structural support from the German Bundestag – and not from the federal government – allows it to critically examine German politics as well. Its presence on social media and digital channels helps it reach a broad audience.
One country, two realities
The division in Polish society is deep: In large cities, a liberal, pro-European population dominates, while in rural regions – especially in the east – conservative and nationalist attitudes prevail. The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party deliberately exploits this division and fuels it with anti-European and anti-German narratives. Germany is frequently portrayed as a hidden power behind Brussels – rhetoric that resonates with a segment of the electorate.
Media access at the border: Two faces of a policy
A particularly sensitive area is reporting on Poland's borders. While independent journalists at the Belarusian border faced massive obstacles – including the imposition of a state of emergency and access restrictions – the situation at the Ukrainian border is different. There, media outlets are welcome to report on the public's willingness to help. Observers emphasize that this solidarity is primarily due to local authorities and civil society engagement – not the central government.
The search for truth in a contested space
Independent media in Poland are striving to counter the government narrative with an open, European-oriented perspective. They emphasize values such as diversity, tolerance, and transparency. But the information war is fierce. The question of whom is believed and which voices are heard is crucial for the country's future. The struggle for interpretive dominance is not only waged in political debates—it also determines the quality of democratic culture.