Democracy – civil society

Although the roots of democracy in Poland can be traced back to as early as the fifteenth century, i.e. the times of the nobles' democracy, the process of the Polish political system democratization should be associated with a much later period, i.e. the system's transformation after 1989. The formation of the liberal-democratic governance and market economy fundamentally changed the character of the country. In comparison to other countries, the history of Polish democracy is thus relatively short.

Democracy is understood in many ways, but the three main models: procedural, substantive and participatory, are usually distinguished. Procedural democracy is based on a set of procedures under which political decisions are taken. This model ensures clarity of criteria, conditions of elections and the functioning of authorities, and sets out the rights and responsibilities of political entities, ensuring the functioning of a democratic state. Meanwhile, substantial democracy refers to the idea of the common good. It emphasizes standards and values which cannot be guaranteed exclusively by procedures. Democracy is expected to set values such as justice, morality, honesty, order, prosperity, happiness. However, participatory democracy is related to the process of collective decision-making. This model emphasizes the form and degree of active participation of citizens in governance. It creates opportunities for greater participation, while civic activity is not limited to elections, but involves much more frequent and more intensive efforts to influence a broad public sphere.