Polish Round Table Talks

The Polish Round Table Talks, held in 1989, were negotiations between Poland’s communist government and opposition leaders, including the Solidarity movement. These discussions aimed to peacefully transition from communist rule to a democratic system. Participants debated electoral reforms, political freedoms, and governance changes. The talks marked a significant step toward democratization, leading to semi-free elections and eventually full democracy. They symbolized a peaceful, negotiated shift in political power, helping Poland avoid violent conflict and setting an example for other Eastern European countries transitioning away from communism.