The article explores the complex history and identity of Silesians within Poland, focusing on the narratives surrounding their service in the Wehrmacht and the Home Army. It highlights the challenges of integrating Silesian history into the broader Polish narrative, the political tensions between different factions, and the ongoing struggle for Silesian cultural recognition and autonomy. The discussion includes perspectives on historical events, political actions, and the cultural identity of Silesians, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding of their history.

The article explores the evolving Polish-Ukrainian relationship amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the potential for stronger ties and mutual understanding. It highlights the challenges and opportunities of this new dynamic, including the impact of migration and the need for fair labor practices. The author reflects on the historical and emotional factors driving Polish support for Ukraine and considers the broader implications for European stability and cooperation.

Agata Sikora, in an interview with Kaja Puto, discusses the complexities and contradictions within progressive and liberal ideologies. Sikora emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and confronting uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, rather than suppressing them. The conversation touches on the historical and ongoing challenges of achieving true equality and freedom, the pitfalls of moralism within leftist circles, and the need for a more inclusive and understanding discourse. The interview also explores the impact of cultural narratives on personal fears and societal behaviors, advocating for a more nuanced and empathetic approach to social and political issues.

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, initially developed to be affordable and easy to distribute, has faced significant setbacks due to communication failures, supply issues, and rare but highly publicized cases of blood clots. This has led to a decline in its popularity, particularly in the European Union, where political figures have made chaotic decisions regarding its use. Meanwhile, Pfizer and Moderna have capitalized on the situation, raising prices for their mRNA vaccines and significantly increasing their revenues. The European Union has also been criticized for its poor performance in global vaccine distribution, especially compared to the United States and China. The article reflects a left-leaning perspective, criticizing both pharmaceutical giants and political figures for their roles in the vaccine distribution failures.

Since October 1, 2023, Ukrainian women in medical professions are required to register for potential military service, reflecting a shift towards gender equality in mobilization. Feminist perspectives vary, with some advocating for equal conscription, while others emphasize the need for women in civilian roles. The article highlights the severe impact of war on women, including sexual violence by Russian soldiers and increased domestic violence. Despite legislative progress, such as the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, challenges like inadequate protective measures and discrimination in the military persist. The debate over gender-segregated train compartments underscores the differing priorities of civilians and those directly involved in the war effort.

The article explores the ideological and social dimensions of meat consumption in Poland, highlighting how dietary choices are influenced by class, gender, and generational factors. It discusses the historical context of meat as a symbol of social status and examines current trends towards vegetarianism and veganism, particularly among the educated and urban populations. The text also touches on the political polarization surrounding meat consumption, with left-leaning individuals more likely to adopt plant-based diets. The article concludes by considering the potential impact of economic crises on dietary habits and the role of policy in promoting plant-based foods.

Nadija Sawczenko, in an interview with Paweł Pieniążek, discusses her political ambitions, including her intention to run for president and her plans to reform Ukraine's political system. She criticizes current Ukrainian politicians for their lack of patriotism and prioritization of personal gain over national interest. Sawczenko emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, even with adversaries, to achieve peace and the release of prisoners. She reflects on her experiences during the war and her imprisonment in Russia, expressing a commitment to continue fighting for Ukraine's future. Sawczenko also plans to establish a new political party, aiming to dismantle the flawed political system and create a more functional state. She remains critical of both Ukrainian and Russian leadership, advocating for a balanced and honest approach to politics. Sawczenko's ultimate goal is to return to the army once Ukraine is stable and has a capable military. The interview highlights her resilience, dedication, and vision for Ukraine's future.

The article discusses the Polish government's plan to create the Mazurska Pętla, a canal project aimed at enhancing sailing routes in the Mazury region. The project, announced by Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Marek Gróbarczyk, aims to alleviate congestion and promote sustainable water tourism. While the project has received mixed reactions due to environmental concerns, the author supports it, emphasizing the potential benefits for local communities and the promotion of eco-friendly sailing. The article also highlights the importance of using EU funds for sustainable development and the need for thorough environmental impact assessments.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees arriving in Poland, highlighting the lack of clear communication and support from the Polish government. It criticizes the government's inadequate response and praises the efforts of NGOs and volunteers who are trying to fill the gaps. The article also addresses the misconceptions about refugees' preferences for larger cities and emphasizes the need for better information dissemination to aid their resettlement.

The article discusses the systemic issues in Poland's healthcare system, focusing on the role of nepotism and the commercialization of medical services. It highlights how having a 'friend doctor' is a marker of social class, allowing some to bypass long queues for medical services, while others suffer. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, with private healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies treating patients as clients. The author calls for significant reforms and increased investment in the healthcare system to address these deep-rooted problems.

Since October 1, 2023, Ukrainian women aged 18 to 60 in the medical field must register for potential military service. Feminists are divided on the issue, with some advocating for equal conscription and others emphasizing the need for women in caregiving roles. The article highlights the severe impact of the war on women, including sexual violence by Russian soldiers and domestic violence by traumatized Ukrainian soldiers. Despite progress, such as the ratification of the Istanbul Convention and increased female military participation, significant challenges remain, including discrimination and inadequate resources for women in the military.

Krakow's tourism boom, driven by policies under Mayor Jacek Majchrowski, has led to significant challenges for local residents, including overcrowding, poor air quality, and a strained rental market. The city's focus on attracting more tourists has overshadowed the needs of its inhabitants, leading to a growing sense of frustration and opposition. The article highlights the negative impacts of unregulated tourism and calls for a more balanced approach that considers the well-being of residents. It also draws parallels with other European cities facing similar issues and suggests learning from their experiences to avoid escalating tensions.

From October 1, 2023, Ukrainian women aged 18 to 60 in the medical field must register for potential military service. Feminists are divided on this issue, with some advocating for equal conscription conditions as men. Ukrainian women face severe challenges, including war crimes by Russian soldiers and domestic violence from traumatized returning soldiers. Despite reforms like the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, issues like inadequate military uniforms and lack of gynecological care persist. The war has paradoxically allowed some women to gain independence and escape abusive relationships, while also intensifying traditional gender roles and discrimination.

The article discusses the challenges and achievements of the first female members of the Polish parliament in the early 20th century, focusing on their fight for women's rights and broader social issues. It highlights the motivations, backgrounds, and contributions of key figures like Zofia Moraczewska and Franciszka Wilczkowiakowa, emphasizing the importance of education and legal reforms. The text also touches on the societal and political obstacles these women faced, including resistance from male politicians and the influence of the Church. The interview with Olga Wiechnik provides insights into the historical context and the enduring relevance of these women's struggles.

The article by Kaja Puto reflects on the heightened sense of alarm among Polish journalists about a potential war, drawing parallels with the pre-World War II atmosphere. Puto critiques the Polish media's focus on sensationalism and fear-mongering, particularly in the context of international tensions involving Brexit, Trump, Putin, Erdogan, and IS. She references journalists like Grzegorz Sroczyński, Anda Rottenberg, and Bartosz Wieliński, who have contributed to the war rhetoric. Puto argues that Poland is unlikely to be a target for Putin due to NATO membership and widespread Russophobia. She emphasizes the need to understand the role of new media in spreading panic and misinformation, rather than drawing historical parallels with 1939. The article also points out the lack of funding for Polish journalists compared to their Western counterparts, who can produce in-depth reports on issues like the Middle East conflict.

Kharkiv, once devastated by war, is now home to a million residents again, with even traffic jams returning. The article highlights the resilience of the city's inhabitants, the efforts of local authorities and volunteers in rebuilding and providing essential services, and the ongoing challenges faced by those who have lost their homes. It also discusses future reconstruction plans led by the Norman Foster Foundation, aiming to transform Kharkiv into a modern, green city. Despite the hardships, the community's spirit and determination to rebuild and improve their lives remain strong.

Kyiv residents adapt to daily blackouts caused by Russian attacks, developing unique survival strategies. Dasza, a game designer, prepares extensively for power outages, while Witia, a teenager, helps his family cope. The article highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of Kyiv's population, with personal stories illustrating the emotional and practical challenges they face. Despite the hardships, there is a strong sense of community and hope for the future.

The article details the dire situation in Kherson following the Russian invasion, highlighting the struggles of local residents for basic necessities like water, food, and warmth. It describes the looting of local museums by Russian forces and the challenges faced by residents in accessing banking services and communication. Personal stories of resilience and hardship are interwoven with broader narratives of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. The Ukrainian government is praised for its efforts to restore services, while the Russian government is heavily criticized for its actions.

Mykolaiv, a city in southern Ukraine, has shown remarkable resilience amidst the ongoing war with Russia. The local drama theatre has become a symbol of cultural preservation and psychological relief, offering performances in underground shelters. Residents, including returning refugees, face daily challenges such as power outages and the threat of missile strikes. Volunteer groups like Rebel Volunteers provide crucial support to both civilians and soldiers. Despite the hardships, the community remains united and hopeful, with a strong sense of identity and resistance against Russian aggression.

A massive Russian missile attack on critical infrastructure has left millions of Ukrainians without power, water, and heat, complicating access to the internet, which is crucial for Ukraine's civil defense. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the establishment of 'points of resilience' across Ukraine, providing essential services. Various apps like Switlo, Trywoha, and Dija have become vital for Ukrainians, aiding in safety, planning, and communication. The IT Army of Ukraine, organized by Mykhailo Fedorov, conducts cyberattacks against Russian targets. Despite the war, Ukraine's IT sector continues to grow, contributing significantly to the economy. However, the country's internet connectivity heavily relies on Elon Musk's Starlink system, raising concerns about dependency. The article underscores the importance of digital tools in modern warfare and civil defense.

Local fixers and translators assisting Western media in conflict zones face numerous challenges, including a lack of empathy and ethical standards from their employers. Despite their crucial role, they often work under difficult conditions and without proper recognition or compensation. The article highlights the experiences of a Ukrainian journalist working as a fixer on the Polish-Ukrainian border, emphasizing the exploitative practices of some Western media outlets and the emotional toll on those involved.

The article discusses the challenges faced by non-white refugees fleeing Ukraine amidst the ongoing war. It highlights the discrimination they encounter, particularly at the Polish border, where volunteer drivers are reluctant to transport them. The text also touches on the broader context of migration to Ukraine, noting the presence of many international students and workers from Africa and Asia. The author criticizes the lack of support for these individuals and calls for greater awareness and assistance.

The article reviews the film 'Gierek,' questioning whether it serves as a balm for those nostalgic for the Polish People's Republic or as a manifesto of nationalist pride. It explores the inclusion of Leszek Balcerowicz in the film, the macroeconomic knowledge of the wives of first secretaries, and the absence of societal representation in a film about a 'good father of the nation.' The review is conducted by Jakub Majmurek, Kaja Puto, and Michał Sutowski, who attempt to critique the work of Michał Węgrzyn and Rafał Woś without being overly harsh.

Despite the focus on COVID-19, 2021 saw significant scientific achievements including the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, the approval of the first malaria vaccine by WHO, the discovery of unexpected muon behavior suggesting new physics, the controversial approval of aducanumab for Alzheimer's, and research showing psilocybin's effectiveness in treating depression.

Nina Boichenko, initiator of the 'Researchers at the Border' initiative, discusses the impact of the migration route through Belarus and the state of emergency on the local community in Podlasie, Poland. The initiative aims to connect researchers in the field to share advice, avoid duplicating research topics, and establish common ethical work rules. Boichenko, along with Natalia Judzińska, seeks to create a research base, a repository of collected data, and possibly an educational website with short films. Despite the lack of funding, they hope to facilitate research in the border zone, which is dynamic and requires immediate attention. Boichenko, a migrant herself, reflects on the taboo of helping migrants and the polarized attitudes towards them in the region.

The article critically examines the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) project in Poland, questioning its feasibility and necessity amidst the ongoing pandemic and climate change policies. It highlights the mixed feelings towards the project, particularly the skepticism about the need for a large new airport and the potential impact on existing airports. The article also discusses broader trends in aviation, including the shift towards remote work and the European Union's climate policies aimed at reducing short-distance flights. Key figures mentioned include Marcin Horała, Mateusz Morawiecki, Frans Timmermans, and Annalena Baerbock.

Polish doctors are increasingly choosing to work in Germany, attracted by better working conditions, higher salaries, and a more balanced work-life integration. The German healthcare system is praised for its high standards, modern equipment, and shorter patient queues. In contrast, the Polish system is criticized for its long working hours, low pay, and insufficient funding. The article discusses the challenges faced by young Polish doctors, including the difficulty of specializing in Poland and the bureaucratic hurdles. The political climate in Poland, particularly regarding women's reproductive rights, is also a factor driving emigration. Despite improvements following strikes, many doctors still consider leaving Poland, exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis.

Upcoming breakthroughs in astronomy and related sciences are crucial for understanding our place in the universe. Despite the pandemic, significant achievements in space exploration were made in 2020, with missions to Mars by the US, China, and the UAE, and the return of samples from asteroids and the Moon. The article anticipates further advancements in 2021, including the potential for space mining and colonization, particularly on Mars and the Moon. It also highlights the socio-economic consequences of these developments, emphasizing the role of private companies and the potential for increased inequality.

The article explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Polish university students who have been forced to continue their studies remotely from their hometowns. It highlights the challenges of digital exclusion, the decline in the quality of education, and the loss of social and cultural experiences that are integral to university life. The piece also discusses the broader implications for mental health and future employment prospects, while critiquing the neoliberal approach to education and the potential long-term effects of remote learning.

Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader, has been a prominent figure on the internet, with millions of followers on Instagram and Facebook before his accounts were blocked. He has used social media as a key tool to wield power and reinforce his authoritarian regime. Despite the suspension of his official accounts, new ones continue to appear under his name. Kadyrov's online activities, which include quirky posts and personal branding, have been mistakenly regarded as merely amusing by international media, overlooking their strategic role in strengthening his rule. Kadyrov came to power after his father, Achmat, was killed in a bomb attack in 2004, having fought against and later supported Russia in the Chechen wars.

The article discusses the reasons why young people in Poland are not participating in KOD protests, highlighting generational differences, economic challenges, and disillusionment with both past and current political systems. It critiques the older generation's expectations and the impact of neoliberal policies on youth, while also addressing the broader socio-political context in Poland.

The article discusses the plight of Chechen refugees attempting to cross the border from Belarus into Poland to seek asylum. Despite the harsh winter conditions, many are turned away by Polish border guards, with only a few families allowed to enter. The situation reflects a change in Poland's policy towards refugees, particularly from Muslim-majority regions, amidst fears of Islamist terrorism. The Polish ombudsman for civil rights and human rights groups have raised concerns about the potential violation of the Geneva Convention, as the majority of asylum-seekers are sent back. The article also touches on Poland's reluctance to assist residents of eastern Ukraine of Polish ethnicity, despite previous government promises and the willingness of the liberal Civic Platform in Poznan to help.

The article discusses the need for Eastern European countries to learn from each other and stand united in the face of political challenges. It criticizes the portrayal of Eastern European women in literature and the patronizing attitudes they face, particularly from right-leaning circles. The author argues for the Polish left to establish a presence in discussions about Eastern Europe, which is often overlooked in favor of Western or global issues. The piece highlights the lack of attention given to Eastern European issues by the younger generation and the left, who are more inclined to align with Western movements. The article calls for a collective regional effort to address the rise of nationalist sentiments and to dismantle the 'brownshirt' nationalist legacy. The author emphasizes the importance of Eastern European solidarity and the need for the left to engage more with the region to counter the influence of conservative think-tanks.

The article reflects on the transformation of Central Europe's political and cultural landscape since the fall of the Soviet Union. It discusses a 1988 literary conference where Central European intellectuals debated their identity against Russian perspectives. The article suggests that the hope for Central Europe to become a liberal democracy has been replaced by xenophobia and a cultural counterrevolution, with countries like Poland and Hungary leading the way. The Visegrad Group's failure to form a meaningful alliance and the rise of anti-refugee sentiments are highlighted. The piece criticizes the region's governments for adopting populist and hypocritical stances, and it questions the future of Central European identity in the face of geopolitical challenges and the rise of populism in Western Europe.