Write a short note how democracy was established in poland
Democracy of Poland : Democracy in Poland is young and a Third wave phenomenon. Poland was ruled by the Polish United Workers’ Party. No other political party was allowed to function. The people could not freely choose the leaders of the communist party or the government. The government in Poland was supported and controlled by the government of the Soviet Union (USSR), a vast and powerful communist state. On 14 August 1980, the workers of Lenin Shipyard in the city of Gdansk went on a strike. The shipyard was owned by the government. In fact all the factories and big property in Poland were owned by the government. Soon these strikes became a movement and the number of the members swelled up named itself as Solidarity. The movement became so strong that it gave into the demands of with Lech Walesa(leader) resulted in an agreement in April 1989 for free elections. Solidarity contested all the 100 seats of the Senate and won 99 of them. In October 1990, Poland had its first presidential elections in which more than one party could contest. Walesa was elected President of Poland.
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Write a short note how democracy was established in poland
Establishment of Democracy in Poland:
Poland's journey towards democracy has been a long and challenging one, marked by historical events, political activism, and societal changes. Let's delve into the details of how democracy was established in Poland.
1. Historical Background:
Poland has a rich history of political transformations. After World War I, the country regained independence in 1918. However, this initial period of democracy was short-lived as Poland fell under authoritarian rule during World War II and subsequently became a satellite state of the Soviet Union.
2. Solidarity Movement:
The Solidarity movement, formed in the 1980s, played a crucial role in the establishment of democracy in Poland. Led by Lech Walesa, it was the first independent trade union in a Soviet-bloc country. Solidarity advocated for workers' rights, political freedoms, and social justice. The movement gained immense popularity and support from various sectors of society, challenging the Communist regime.
3. Round Table Talks:
In 1989, the Round Table Talks were initiated between the Communist government and Solidarity. These negotiations aimed to bring about political reforms and pave the way for free elections. The talks resulted in an agreement that allowed for partially free parliamentary elections and the formation of a non-Communist government.
4. Transition to Democracy:
The first partially free elections were held in June 1989, marking a significant turning point in Poland's path towards democracy. Solidarity emerged as the dominant political force, winning a majority of seats in the Sejm (parliament). Tadeusz Mazowiecki, a Solidarity member, became the first non-Communist Prime Minister since World War II.
5. Constitutional Changes:
In 1990, Poland adopted a new constitution, replacing the socialist system with a democratic framework. The constitution enshrined fundamental rights and freedoms, established a multi-party system, and outlined the separation of powers. This laid the foundation for a democratic Poland.
6. EU and NATO Membership:
Poland's desire to become part of the European Union (EU) and NATO further solidified its commitment to democracy. Poland joined the EU in 2004, followed by NATO in 1999. These memberships not only provided economic and security benefits but also reinforced democratic principles and values.
Conclusion:
The establishment of democracy in Poland was a result of the Solidarity movement's efforts, the Round Table Talks, and subsequent political reforms. Through these transformative processes, Poland transitioned from an authoritarian regime to a democratic state. Today, Poland continues to uphold democratic principles, striving for the betterment of its citizens and actively participating in international affairs.
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