Austria’s Reaction to Polish Efforts to Normalize Bilateral Relations in 1984–1989

The research problems presented in this chapter focus on the results of Polish-Austrian joint investment and environmental efforts. The first section discusses and evaluates the impact of Austrian economic incentives and direct investment on the economic situation in Poland until 1989. Both the common economic goals over several decades and the results of joint activities during the crisis period were analyzed. The second part examines Polish-Austrian bilateral relations, particularly treaties on environmental issues. Environmental policy has changed dramatically over the past fifty years. The process of initiating changes in this area was linked to the development of awareness of the effects of pollution on humans and habitats. Adopting the methods of historical research, an attempt was made to determine whether the activity of democratic states, both in terms of political action and the influence of public opinion, transferred to Eastern countries. I took into account the policy of a neutral state—Austria—viewed by communist countries as a potential partner. This research aimed to clarify the mechanisms of optimal political decision-making, while shaping the political consciousness of citizens.