The year marks the centenary of Wajda’s birth and the 10th anniversary of his death.
Senators said the commemorations will provide an opportunity to revisit his body of work, which they described as a cornerstone of Poland’s cultural heritage.
Wajda’s movies explored wartime and post-World War II experiences, as well as the moral and political dilemmas of later decades.
Another figure to be honoured in 2026 is Jerzy Giedroyc, founder and longtime editor of the Paris-based monthly Kultura, who is regarded as one of the most influential Polish political thinkers of the 20th century.
Historians and politicians have pointed to Giedroyc’s role in shaping public debate, his advocacy of dialogue with Poland’s neighbours and his vision of Poland as part of the European community.
The Senate also named the northern port city of Gdynia as one of the icons of 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of the city’s founding. Lawmakers cited its rapid development, economic importance and role in Poland’s modern history.
In addition, 2026 will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the workers'’ protests of June 1976 in Radom, Ursus and Płock, which were violently suppressed by Poland’s communist authorities.
The Senate described the protests as a key moment in the emergence of the democratic opposition that later contributed to the collapse of communism.
Lawmakers also designated 2026 as the year of Blessed Mother Elżbieta Róża Czacka, a pioneer in care for the blind and the founder of a centre for visually impaired people in Laski near Warsaw.
The Senate highlighted her social and educational work as an early example of systemic support for people with disabilities in Poland.
Senators said the selection of the 2026 icons was intended to encourage yearlong educational, cultural and commemorative activities rooted in shared history and national heritage.
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Source: polskieradio.pl