The European Solidarity Centre to be erected on the ex-Gdańsk Shipyard estate is intended as a special form means of commemorating the events and people engaged with the struggle for freedom and democracy world wide. The erection act was signed during the celebrations of the 25. anniversary of the Independent and Self-Governed Solidarity Trade Union and the signing of the August Accords. The signatures, alongside Lech Wałęsa, the legendary Solidarity leader, were placed by the presidents and prime ministers of about a dozen states visiting Gdańsk.

The structure to be erected next to the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers in Gdańsk, is meant to serve both the locals, and the Polish and foreign guests. The centre will combine e.g. a library and reading room, exhibition and conference halls. It will also house the Solidarity exhibition.

The ESC is to be opened in August 2012. The investment is estimated at PLN 292.8 million, out of
which the structural funds of the European Union will contribute PLN 140.14 million.The rest will come from the city budget.