The politics of Poland refers to the system, principles, practices, and ideologies that shape the governance and decision-making processes within the country of Poland. As a parliamentary republic, Poland follows a multi-party democracy, where different political parties compete in elections to gain control of the government and formulate policies.
Poland's political system is characterized by a President, who is the head of state and primarily represents the country on international stages, and a Prime Minister, who holds executive power and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the government. The Parliament, consisting of the Sejm (lower house) and the Senate (upper house), plays a crucial role in the legislative process, where laws and regulations are debated, proposed, and ultimately passed.
The politics of Poland have been shaped by various parties with a range of ideological orientations, including conservative, liberal, leftist, and nationalist viewpoints. Political parties play a vital role in shaping the country's policies on social, economic, and foreign affairs. They compete in general elections, and their success or failure determines the composition and direction of the government.
The politics of Poland have witnessed significant changes since the end of communist rule in 1989, with the country transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a market-based economy and embracing democratic values. Europe's geopolitical and economic changes also influence Poland's politics, with the country being a member of the European Union (EU) since 2004. The politics of Poland are also influenced by regional and global dynamics, as well as domestic issues such as social welfare, human rights, religious freedoms, and immigration policies.
