Bishop Marek Jędraszewski delivered a provocative homily for Poland’s National Day on 11 November at Wawel Cathedral, noting that 14 percent of Poles reportedly hate their country.
Sermon at Wawel Cathedral
On Tuesday, 11 November, Bishop Marek Jędraszewski spoke during the National Day Mass held at Kraków’s Wawel Cathedral. He urged believers to choose sides in a “dramatic” battle, warning that Poland faces a looming demographic collapse and that failing to act risks erasing its history, towns and homes.
Psychology Institute Study Reveals 14 %
The bishop cited a study by the Polish Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Psychology, stating that 14 percent of Poles “hate Poland” and consider the country an abnormality. He reiterated the Institute’s finding that this segment has grown in recent years.
Paradox of Polish Identity
He referenced comments by Professor Andrzej Nowak, who noted the paradox that even those who hate Poland, feel shame, ridicule national identity. Nowak argued that the majority—85 percent—must act to shame this minority and prevent the erosion of mass culture.
Survey on Polish Identity 2023
The data likely stem from a 2023 report “Do You Identify With Poland Today?” surveying 1,504 adults. It found 28 percent were “withdrawn pessimists” with weak national identification, 20 percent were “fulfilled democrats,” and 14 percent were “shamed by Poland.”
