An evening of critical thinking and constructive debate at the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum.
On 10 February 2026, the Federation of Polish Student Societies in the UK hosted a special academic debate, How to Think About Politics in a Polarised World, at the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum in London.
The event brought together students, young professionals, academics, and members of the Polish community for an evening dedicated to critical thinking, political discourse, and constructive debate. Unlike many contemporary political discussions, the aim was not to promote a particular viewpoint, but rather to explore how political opinions are formed in an era increasingly shaped by emotions, algorithms, media narratives, and polarisation.
The evening began with a keynote lecture by Professor Nicholas O'Shaughnessy, a leading expert on political persuasion, propaganda, and strategic communication. In his address, Professor O'Shaughnessy examined the relationship between politics, emotion, and digital media, offering valuable insights into the challenges facing democratic societies in the modern information environment.
The keynote was followed by a structured Oxford-style debate on the motion:
“This House believes that political polarisation in Poland poses a greater threat to democracy than disinformation.”
The proposition was represented by Jacek Sagatowski, Political Affairs Expert at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in London, joined by Bartłomiej Maciejewski, MSc Diplomacy and International Security at the University of Strathclyde and Editorial Writer for The Lambert. The opposition was represented by Dr Roch Dunin-Wąsowicz of University College London, alongside Katie Taylor, studying Politics, Sociology and East European Studies at UCL and an officer of the Federation's events team. The debate was moderated by journalist and editor Maria Budzisiak, who guided the discussion and audience Q&A session.
Hosting the event at the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum carried particular significance. The Institute preserves one of the most important collections relating to modern Polish history outside Poland and serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of political leadership, civic engagement, and informed public discourse. Following the debate, guests had the opportunity to learn more about the Institute's work and explore parts of its collections through guided tours.
The Federation would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum for hosting the event, particularly Danuta Bildziuk and Mike Wójcik for their support throughout the planning process. We are also grateful to our media partners, MyPolska.uk and British Poles, as well as to everyone who attended and contributed to the evening's thoughtful and respectful atmosphere.
As one of the Federation's first events in this format, the debate reflected our commitment to creating spaces where complex issues can be discussed with intellectual curiosity, mutual respect, and a focus on evidence-based reasoning. We look forward to building on this success through future events that connect students, professionals, and the wider Polish community in the United Kingdom.
And if you have not yet been to the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum in South Kensington yourself, we wholeheartedly encourage you to visit — it is a place of immense historical and cultural value, home to collections that tell the story of modern Poland like nowhere else in the UK. Entry is free and guided tours are always provided. Opening hours and more information at pism.org.uk.
