The Transnationality of Dutch Solidarity with the Polish Opposition 1980-1989

Abstract

The Transnationality of Dutch Solidarity with the Polish Opposition 1980-1989 This article examines Dutch solidarity with the Polish independent trade union Solidarność on the basis of three social movements : the trade unions, the peace movement, and Polish Solidarność exiles in the Netherlands. The major Dutch trade unions fnv and cnv were in touch with and in support of Solidarność much earlier and more explicitly than the peace movement ikv. The latter sided with the Polish opposition only after the proclamation of martial law and found an equal partner only after the foundation of the Polish peace movement Freedom and Peace in 1985. However, while approaching Eastern Europe, peace movements – just as exiles – had many more contacts with other Western European activists. By contrast, the trade unions’ transnational scope was limited to a bilateral collaboration with Poland.