Poland and South Asia: Perceptions and Discourses

The chapter examines how South Asia is mis(perceived) and (mis)understood among Polish youth, in public opinion surveys, and official circles. Focusing primarily on India and Pakistan, she examines Polish discourses on contemporary international issues such as the Indo-Pacific, India-China relations, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Indian economy, New Delhi’s international position, the Russian invasion of Ukraine as well as security issues and the political turmoil in Pakistan. In conclusion, the author argues that though there are less misperceptions about South Asia today than in the past because of greater awareness, the problem of reaching out and providing an unbiased picture to the average Pole persists.