Polish history appreciated in Scotland – an important gesture during the first meeting of the Polish Diaspora Council.

During the first meeting of the Council for Polish Affairs and Poles Abroad under the President of the Republic of Poland, held on May 2, 2026, in Warsaw, Iwona Golińska – President of the Polish Sue Association and Secretary of the Council presented Minister Agnieszka Jędrzak, representing the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland, with the original official resolution of the Scottish Parliament regarding commemorations related to the history of Poles in Scotland.

This document is of particular significance for Polish-Scottish historical relations and for the work of the Institute of National Remembrance and the Polish Sue Association to commemorate the contribution of Poles to the fight for European freedom during World War II.

Official Recognition by the Scottish Parliament

The resolution (Motion S6M-21142) adopted by the Scottish Parliament and the accompanying letter of recognition by Annie Wells MSP are a unique expression of respect for the Polish soldiers, sailors, and airmen who fought alongside the Allies during World War II.

Original Resolution

The central point of reference for the resolution was the exhibition “Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom,” prepared by the Institute of National Remembrance and presented on March 13, 2026, in the Scottish Parliament.

The exhibition chronicled the fate of Poles from Soviet deportations, through the trail of Anders’ Army, to the fight for European freedom.

In the Resolution, Annie Wells, MSP emphasized that the exhibition was both moving and extremely valuable educationally, reminding us of the universal values of courage, perseverance, and freedom.

The President of the Republic of Poland’s Voice in the Scottish Parliament

Minister Agnieszka Jędrzak from the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland was present at the exhibition’s official opening in Edinburgh and read a letter from the President of the Republic of Poland addressed to the event participants.

The presence of a representative of the highest state authorities emphasized the importance of the ceremony and the significance of the joint policy of remembrance implemented by Poland and Scotland.

Clydebank and ORP Piorun – a symbol of shared struggle

The resolution highlighted the events surrounding the Clydebank raid in March 1941 and the participation of Polish sailors, including the crew of ORP Piorun, in the defense of Great Britain.

The Scottish Parliament officially recognized the contribution of Poles to Scottish history, emphasizing the enduring bonds between both nations.

This is an important confirmation that the memory of Polish heroes remains alive beyond Poland’s borders.

Commemorations at the Scottish Parliament – March 13, 2026. Recognition for Polish Sue and the Institute of National Remembrance

In Annie Wells’s official letter, special recognition was extended to the Polish Sue Association, which, together with the Institute of National Remembrance, prepared an extensive program of commemorative events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Clydebank.

The organizers’ commitment to preserving and promoting the history of Poles in Great Britain and their contribution to building contemporary Polish-Scottish relations was emphasized.

The presentation of the original resolution to Minister Agnieszka Jędrzak during the first meeting of the Council for Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad was symbolic.

The document is a testament to the recognition that Polish history and heritage was received and recognised in Scotland and internationally.

It also demonstrates the effective cooperation between the Institute of National Remembrance, Polish diaspora organizations, and state institutions of the Republic of Poland.

Memory that builds the future

The Scottish Parliament resolution, the letter from Annie Wells MSP, the exhibition of the Institute of National Remembrance, and the involvement of the Polish Sue Association demonstrate that history can be an effective tool for building bridges between nations.

The presentation of this unique document to the representative of the President of the Republic of Poland during the inaugural meeting of the Polish Diaspora Council is another step in strengthening cooperation between Poland, the Polish diaspora in the United Kingdom and international partners.

It is also proof that the memory of Polish heroes remains alive, inspires future generations, and finds recognition far beyond the borders of our homeland.

Glory to the Heroes! 🇵🇱🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧

Text: Polish Sue Association
Photos: Polish Sue Association / Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland