Readers Weigh in on Poland's Stance in Treaty Discussions

The following comments reflect the views of DW-WORLD.DE readers. Not all reader comments have been published. DW-WORLD.DE reserves the right to edit for length and appropriateness of content.

Poland is within its rights and is right to stick to its position on the EU's voting structure. -- Walter Rymsza, Poland

I think that there is only one way forward for Europe and this is to find a common goal and unity, without the squabble over who has more voting rights. The European idea might die one of these days. People might ask themselves what the sense is of their country being in the EU if they can't find a common goal. Maybe equal rights for every member state, no matter how big or how small and how many citizens it has -- this might be an idea. -- Mike H. Roesemann, US

Poland should understand that there will have to be concessions on its part if it wants to participate in the EU. I personally think that Germany has the right to have its share of votes, because of the economic, diplomatic and social power that it has. For Poland to have comparable strength within the union then there should be reform in the voting process, but until then Poland should work with the EU. -- Milan, Slovakia

For the Polish leader to say that the EU voting system should be based on Poland's pre-World War Two population is disturbing. With comments like that, it will be difficult for Germany to reconcile with its neighbor. One wonders why Germany tried so hard to help them join the EU. Germany should say that they will go with Poland's voting plan once Silesia is returned to German territory. -- William Conners, US

Merkel and Kaczynski don't quite see eye to eye on the treaty issue

Poland has every right to take a stand on its position. Just as every country in the United Nations does, regardless of its population, each country in the EU should be fairly treated, despite how large or small it is. I am from Hawaii, and being the smallest state in the US, we still have a fair voice on all issues going through Congress and the Senate. Give Poland their chance to speak out. -- Christine Karas, US

I think the idea of the constitution should be dropped. An amending treaty is all that is required to help take the EU forward. -- Kevin Blanking, Great Britain

I am disappointed in the present Polish leadership. No person and no nation inhabiting this world are without fault! Let's reach out in hope and trust and not be possessed by the spirit of reciprocation. Look at the relationship that developed between Germany and France -- it inspires because their leaders and most inhabitants embraced forgiveness, mutual respect, and hope. -- Elisabeth Heptner, US

I was born in Poland but have lived in Canada for the past half of my life so I am able to understand both sides of the story. As much as I'm concerned at how the media, in particular German media, in labeling their headlines when it comes to Poland, I can certainly say that Poland is not trying to dampen the hopes of the EU treaty's success as this article claims. Poland is only trying to hammer out the bugs in the EU constitution, taking lessons from history. To inflame the situation like Germany is only worsening the atmosphere surrounding a discussion that should be carried out without rushing. Germany is pushing to get the constitution finalized as if something were on fire. Every time Poland starts the conversation, Germany slams down its might, accusing Poland of threatening the constitution. I think Germany's the real threat to the constitution, as it is oppressive to all outside suggestions that don't result in Germany as the major stake holder. -- Tom Varga, Poland

These Kaczynski twins remind me of our President George W. Bush. Maybe that's why they get along so well. There has to be room to negotiate, and right-wingers or left-wingers are not so good at that. I think the world will be a better place with a strong EU. People in the EU need to realize that the world is not perfect and will never be perfect. -- Lee Davis, US

I think Poland is pushing for a new voting system in the EU which would be more democratic one than that presented in the constitutional treaty. The evidence demonstrated by Poland proves the fairness of the Polish proposal. -- Stanislav Sendek, Slovakia