Zbigniew Herbert (1924-1998) was a renowned Polish poet, essayist, and moralist, celebrated as one of the most influential post-war Polish writers. Despite first being published in the 1950s, he chose to withdraw most of his works from official Polish government publications due to political reasons. In the 1980s, he resumed publication, initially in underground press. Herbert's literary prowess led to multiple Nobel Prize in Literature nominations since the 1960s, and his works have been translated into 38 languages. Educated as an economist and lawyer, he became a prominent figure in the Polish opposition to communism and spent his later years in Paris, collaborating with the journal Zeszyty Literackie. In 2013, the Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award was established in honor of his legacy. Herbert's literary contributions were further recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the 1963 Kościelski Prize, 1979 Petrarca-Preis, and the 1991 Jerusalem Prize. His life and works reflect a deep-rooted commitment to artistic expression and opposition to political oppression, leaving an indelible mark on the world of literature.

Zbigniew Rau, born on February 3, 1955, is a prominent Polish politician and lawyer who has made significant contributions to his country's political landscape. Prior to his role as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland from 2020 to 2023, Rau served as the voivode of Łódź Voivodeship from 2015 to 2019. His extensive academic background includes earning a Doctor of Juridical Science degree from Łódź University and teaching at various esteemed institutions in Germany, Britain, Australia, and the United States. Rau's political career has been characterized by his support for the Law and Justice party and his representation of Poland at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Notably, he has held conservative views and has been a vocal critic of left-wing politics and LGBT social movements. Despite facing controversy, Rau's impact on Poland's political and legal landscape has been substantial.