Abstract: Vinyl-substituted 2,2'-bipyridine compounds of the formula ##STR1## and complexes thereof with metals or metal compounds other than alkali metals or alkaline earth metals, or alkali metal compounds, or alkaline earth metal compounds are described, R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 being as defined in patent claim 1 and the vinyl group being bonded in the 4-position or 6-position. The 2,2'-bipyridine compounds (I) are suitable for the preparation of complex-forming or complexed, crosslinked or uncrosslinked polymers. Complexed polymers, obtainable from these, are used, for example, as catalysts, in particular for transvinylation reactions. Uncomplexed polymers, which can be prepared from compounds (I), are suitable as metal ion scavengers in various applications.