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71Polska 2014: Transformation Complete


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Poland is at the very heart of Europe. In the last 25 years it has undergone a transformation, becoming a stable democraticcountry with a dynamic economy. The country has truly becomea bridge between east and west. It has been said that the 21st century will be the a ‘New Golden Age’ for Poland.

BASIC FACTS ABOUT POLAND

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Key information

Border countries:

Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus,

Lithuania, Russia

Capital city

WarsawClimate

moderate

RLT

BY

UA

SK

CZ

PLD

Poland lies on the EuropeanPlain, by some measurements in the very centre of Europe. The Baltic Sea in the north and the Sudetes and Carpathian mountain ranges in the south form natural borders.Seven countries share land borders with Poland: Belarus, the Czech Republic, Germany, Lithuania, Russia, Slovakia and Ukraine. Poland’s location at the heart of Europe between major powers has had a profound effect on its culture and history, and the country is now benefiting as a crossroads of Europe.

Population

38.5 millionArea

312,679 km2

Political system

parliamentary democracy

Total GDP (2012)

$489billion

Member of

UN, EU, NATO, WTO

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National symbols

The country, officially called‘The Republic of Poland’, is inCentral Europe. In Polish itsname is ‘Polska’. With an area of312,679 km2, Poland is the 69thlargest country in the worldand the 9th largest in Europe.With a population of more than38.5 million, it is the 34th mostpopulous country in the worldand the 6th most populousmember of the European Union.

National currency

Polish złoty (PLN)National road tra!c code

PL

National emblem

the white eagleNational Internet su!x

.pl

National flag

white and redNational phone code

+48

O!cial name

The Republic of Poland

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The Polish language

Polish is part of the West Slavic language group, which includes Czech and Slovak and which in turn is part of the Indo- European language group. It is estimated that Polish is a native language for some 44 million people worldwide. Polish is generally acknowledged as being one of the most challenging languages in the world to learn. But that challenge is rewarding.

Aa Ee

Jj

!"

#$ %&

'( )*

Kk

Oo

Tt +,

Bb

Ff Ll

Óo

Uu

Cc

Gg -.

Pp

Ww

/0

Hh

Mm Rr

Yy

Dd

Ii

Nn Ss

Zz

The Polish alphabet, which has 32 characters,

does not include the Latin letters

Q, V and X.The most di!cult tongue twister

W Szczebrzeszynie chrząszcz brzmi w trzcinie i Szczebrzeszyn z tego słynie.

Eng: In Szczebrzeszyn a beetle buzzes in the reed, for which Szczebrzeszyn is famous.

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The word for Poland in most languages (including Polish) derives from the name of the ‘Polanie’ tribe which asserted control over a number of neighbouring tribes near Gniezno (Poland’s first capital) in the 10th century. The name of the tribe was derived from the word ‘pole’ meaning ‘field.’ The name for Poland in some other languages, including Lithuanian and Hungarian, derives from the word ‘l*da’ meaning ‘a tract of uncultivated land.’ In Hebrew, the name of the country is ‘Pol-in’, which also means ‘a place to rest.’ This was originally seen as an auspicious sign by many Jews, who decided to take up residence in Poland.


Poland in other languages

The name for Poland is derived from

the Polish word ‘pole’

meaning ‘field’.

Chinese:

BolanGerman:

PolenFrench:

PologneFinnish:

PuolaPortuguese:

PolóniaSpanish:

PoloniaTurkish:

PolonyaVietnamese:

Ba Lan


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Famous Poles

Poles have had a huge impact on the world, from science to culture to sport to religion to politics. Without the contribution of Poles our world would certainly look much different than it does today. Here are some of the most famous Poles in history – some of whom you may not have even known were Polish.

Lech Wałęsa(Born 1943)

Co-founded ‘Solidarność’ (Eng: Solidarity), the first independent trade union in the Soviet bloc. In 1983 he won the Nobel Peace Prize and in 1990 became the first democratically elected President of Poland.

Maria Skłodowska-Curie(1867-1934)

Famous physicist, twice winner of the Nobel Prize (for physics in 1903 and for chemistry in 1911). Together with her husband Pierre Curie she discovered the radioactive elements polonium and radium in 1898.

Nicolas Copernicus(1473-1543)

Mathematician and astronomer, born in Toruń, Poland. His formulation of a heliocentric model of the universe, set forth in his book, ‘On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres’, began the Copernican Revolution in science.

Robert Lewandowski(born 1988)

One of the best football players in the world. German Bundesliga Player of the 2012 Season and twice Polish player of the year. He has appeared over 120 times for Borussia Dortmund and over 60 times for the Polish national team.

Pope John Paul II(1920-2005)

Born Karol Józef Wojtyła, the first non-Italian pope in 455 years and the second longest serving pope in history. He is recognised as one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century, contributing to the fall of communism in Europe.

Fryderyk Chopin(1810-1849)

One of the world’s greatest composers and a piano virtuoso, widely regarded as a musical genius. Chopin grew up in Warsaw, where he completed his musical education and composed many of his works.

Jan III Sobieski(1629-1696)

King of Poland from 1674-1696, he is most famous for his role in the Christian forces’ victory over the Ottoman Empire at the 1883 Battle of Vienna, where he held overall command. Polish forces played a key role in defeating the Turks.

Roman Polański(born 1933)

Renowned filmmaker and director of such classics as ‘Rosemary’s Baby’, ‘Chinatown’, and ‘The Pianist’. He has been nominated for 6 Oscars (winning Best Director for ‘The Pianist’) and won numerous other awards.

Joseph Conrad(1857-1924)

Born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski, he is considered one of the greatest novelists in English, though it was not his native language. Among his greatest works are: ‘Heart of Darkness’, ‘Lord Jim’, and ‘The Secret Agent’.

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Main cities in Poland

Poland has several large cities, forming the economic backbone of the country. They are a diverse set with varying histories, but all offer a wide array of business opportunities and cultural activities.

Warsawpop. 1.7 million

Poland's capital city, and its most

important business and economic centre. Almost

entirely destroyed in WWII and

rebuilt during the second half of the

20th century.

Cracowpop. 760,000

Capital of Poland from 1038 to 1569.

Considered the cultural capital of

Poland, it is famous for its historic sites, including Wawel Castle.

Łódźpop. 740,000

Located in central Poland. Mostly

known for textile production in

the 19th century. Now famous for its film school.

Wrocławpop. 630,000

Located in south-western Poland, at various times the city has been part

of Poland, Bohemia, the Austrian

Empire, Prussia, and Germany.

Poznańpop. 550,000

Located in west-central Poland, it lies close to Poland's first

capital. Poland's first rulers are buried there.

Gdańskpop. 460,000

Home of Poland's shipbuilding

industry and the birthplace of

the Solidarność movement. Lies on the coast of the Baltic Sea.

Katowicepop. 307,000

Poland's southern industrial hub.

Lies at the centre of the largest

conurbation in the country, numbering about 2.7 million.


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71

6 JanuaryEpiphany, or the Holiday of the Three Kings. Reinstated in 2010 after having been discontinued by the communist authorities in 1960.

1 MayO!cially the ‘State Holiday’, this date was set by communist authorities as Labour Day and is still informally known in Poland as such. 1 May is also the date of Poland’s entrance into the European Union (in 2004).

3 MayConstitution Day, commemorating Poland’s adoption of the first constitution in Europe in 1791.

The May HolidayThe first three days of May in Poland are referred to as ‘Majówka’ (a pun on the name of the month which can also mean ‘May Day Picnic’). The ‘State Holiday’ falls on on 1 May, Flag Day on 2 May and Constitution Day, commemorating the signing of the first constitution in Europe in 1791, on 3 May. Poles generally don’t receive a day o& work on 2 May, though many take a day of vacation, in order to make for a three-day break from work.

4 JuneThe anniversary of Poland’s 1989 first partially free elections after communist time. Not o!cially a public holiday, but known in Poland as ‘Freedom Day’.

1 NovemberAll Saints Day, when families typically get together to leave candles on the graves of their loved ones.

1 AugustThe anniversary of the start of the Warsaw Uprising in 1944, not o!cially a public or national holiday. However, for one minute at 5pm, sirens sound and the entire city of Warsaw stands still to honour the memory of those who fought.

11 NovemberIndependence Day, when Poland,became sovereign after 123years under foreign rule. That day, Józef Piłsudski, as an informal head of the country took over authority over the re-emerging Polish state.

15 AugustThe Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It is also Polish Army Day, which commemorates the Miracle on the Vistula in 1920, when the Polish army defeated the Soviet Army, stopping the spread of communism and Soviet totalitarianism in Europe.


Important dates

Many of Poland’s public holidays have religious roots, a function of the strong role the Roman Catholic Church has played over the years. These include All Saints Day, on 1 November, when Polish people return to their home towns to remember family members who have passed away. The most important patriotic national holiday is Independence Day, on 11 November, marking the day in 1918 when Poland regained its territory after 123 years of having been wiped off the map of Europe. Some other dates marking important events in the country’s history are observed, though these are not always official public holidays.

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The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork

The largest Medieval castle in Europe. The red-brick castle was the seat of the Grand

Master of the Teutonic Order and the largest structure of its kind in medieval Europe.

Białowieża Forest -

Last part of the primaeval forest, which long time ago covered the whole continent. Now home to the European bison, one of the symbols of Poland.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

The oldest active salt mine in the world. In the mine there is an underground post o!ce, a restaurant,

a cinema, as well as a health resort in which allergies and asthma are treated.


Visiting Poland for pleasure

Poland has something for every tourist. Nature lovers can enjoy miles of seaside, rugged mountains, clear lakes and flowing rivers. History buffs can tour churches that are hundreds of years old and castles that played a key role in shaping European history. Those interested in culture can get their fill of museums, monuments and architecture. No wonder an increasing number of tourists visit Poland each year.

In 2012 the number of tourists visiting

Poland grew by 11% to reach

14.8 million

In 2013 the number of tourists visiting

Poland grew by 7% to reach

15.8 million

In 2013 tourists visiting Poland have left in the country

€10bn92% of foreign visitors to UEFA Euro 2012 said that they

would recommend Poland to others as a place to visit..

Poland’s UNESCO World Heritage sites: - Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi

Concentration and Extermination Camp- Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork- Centennial Hall in Wrocław- Churches of Peace in Jawor and Świdnica- Historic Centre of Kraków- Historic Centre of Warsaw- Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: the Mannerist Architectural

and Park Landscape Complex and Pilgrimage Park- Medieval Town of Toruń- Muskauer Park / Park Mużakowski- Old City of Zamość- Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines- Wooden Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region- Wooden Churches of Southern Małopolska- Białowieża Forest


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Visiting Poland for business

Poland is a highly attractive locationfor investment and businessexpansion. According to a reporton European attractiveness byErnst & Young, in the next threeyears Poland will be the secondmost attractive investmentdestination in Europe, overtakingthe UK, France and Russia.Highlighting Poland’s stablemacroeconomic situation, thereport mentions the availabilityof well-qualified and productiveemployees as a key strength,as well as its business-friendlyclimate and transparenttax and legal systems 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

€4.3bn

€10.3bn€8.3bn

€15.6bn€17.2bn

€10.1bn €9.9bn €10.5bn

€14.8bnForeign direct investment into Poland

95% of foreign investors in Poland would choose the country as

a place to invest in again.

Poland placed 50th in the 2014 Index of Economic

Freedom rankingby The Wall Street Journal and the

Heritage Foundation. It is higher than such competitors for investment as Hungary, Slovakia, France, Romania and Turkey.

Poland ranked 45th out of 189 countries for ease of doing business by the

World Bank. Xavier Devictor, World Bank

country manager for Poland and the Baltic states, called Poland

“champion of the region.”

38.5 millionPoland’s population makes it

the largest market in the region. Domestic demand has risen steadily for over a decade.


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The most iconic building

Hated by some, loved by others, the Palace of Culture and Science (Pa.ac Kultury i Nauki, PKiN) in Warsaw is arguably the most controversial building in Poland. A “gift” from the Soviet Union to the people of Poland, it was originally named after Joseph Stalin. For many Poles it still epitomises post-war Soviet domination, while others embrace it as an iconic landmark and symbol of the city. Today it is a tourist attraction and an office building, and also hosts pubs, museums, cinemas, a concert hall, a theatre and a university.

3,500construction workers from the Soviet Union

built the edifice

By the end of 2013 the building was

the tallest in Poland,6th tallest in the EU,

187th tallest in the world

Height: 237m

42floors

3,288rooms

Area:123,000 m2

Palace of Culture

and ScienceConstruction lasted from

1952-1955


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Poland’s economy over 30 years ago started its trasnformation process, from communist planned economy to free market and is catching up, thanks to its substantial GDP growth, with largest western economies. Poland’s financial system employs the same open market practices as the rest of the EU, whilst managing to avoid some of the pitfalls which have led other member states into recession during the recent global financial crisis.

POLAND’S ECONOMY


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POLAND’S ECONOMY

Economic overview

Following worldwide unique time of over 20 years of constant economic growth, Poland is recognised as a high-income economy by the World Bank and the OECD with nominal GDP per capita having risen to $12,708. Since the fall of the Iron Curtain, Poland has refashioned itself as a model for free-market economics. It is the largest economy in Central Europe, the 6th largest in the EU and, depending on the measurement, 19th to 21st largest in the world. 1990 19902012 2012

$1,694

$12,708

$64bn

$489bnGDP per capita

(nominal, current prices):

Total GDP (nominal,

current prices):

Long-term growth projections conclude that Poland will continue to grow faster

than Western Europe and thus continue to converge at least until 2030. This would allow it to reach relative income levels of some 80%

of the EU-15 average income by 2030.

International rating (Jan 2014):

biggest economy in

Central Europe

6th largest in the EU

A-stable

Fitch

A2stableMoody’s

A-stable

S&P

2012 GDP per capita in relation to EU average:

66%

2004 (EU acces-sion) GDP per

capita in relation to EU average:

51%


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With its skilled workforce and strong industrial traditions, Poland is Europe’s farming and manufacturing heartland and a major supplier of top- quality food, electromechanical products, furniture, vehicles and aircraft. Since 2000, Poland’s foreign trade turnover has increased more than threefold.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Foreign trade

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

€4

0bn

€14

3bn

€56

bn

€15

4bn

In 2012 exports represented more than

46% of GDP

up from only 27% in 2001.

Poland’s key foreign market is Germany, which accounts for a quarter of exports.

In September 2013 Poland saw a record trade surplus of

€673mThe EU is by far Poland’s largest trading partner accounting for about 79% of exports and 64% of imports.

expo

rts

impo

rts

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POLAND’S ECONOMY

Economic growth

Poland’s GDP per capita has rocketed since 1989; more than two decades of uninterrupted growth has made the country a star performer amongst all transition economies. Poland was the only economy in Europe to avoid a recession during the global crisis, benefiting from a depreciated real exchange rate, large domestic market, relatively low exposure to international trade, low house-hold and corporate-sector debt leverage and stimulative fiscal and monetary policy. 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

+5.0% +4.5% +4.3%

+1.2% +1.4%

+3.9%

+5.3%

+3.6%

+6.2%+6.8%

+5.1%

+1.7%

+3.9% +4.3%

+1.9%

Total GDP for 2012 (current prices):

PLN1,595bn

In 2012 Poland’s GDP was almost 20% higher than at the beginning of the

global financial crisis, a peerless per-formance among all EU 28 countries.Total GDP for 1998

(current prices):

PLN551bn

Free float of the national currency helped the country

maintain development even in the middle of

the global crisis.

Beginning of the global crisis:

PLN 1,275bn (total GDP for 2008 in current prices)


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Poland is the main beneficiary of EU Structural Funds, which will continue to subsidize some of the largest investments in infrastructure, human capital, innovation and ICT over the coming decade. They are helping to close the gap between Poland and more developed EU members.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

EU structural funds

Poland is eligible for

€105.8bn under the new EU budget for

2014-2020, making it once again the biggest beneficiary among member states. The scheduled funds will boost growth by up to 1.0 percentage point

per year until at least 2020.

Under the EU budget for 2007-2013 Poland received some

€101.5bnwhich financed unprecedented investments in infrastructure and helped to boost Polish economy within past years.

Within the 2007-2013 period,

91,834 contracts

for co-financing

were signed with beneficiaries

infrastructure and environment

human capital

innovative economy

regional development

European territorial

cooperation


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Poland maintains a floating currency, the z.oty, which helps to keep Polish products competi-tive on world markets and insu-lates its economy from external shocks. The country has an independent central bank with a solid track record of responsi-ble, anti-cyclical monetary policy, as well as a well-regulated and conservative banking system.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

National currency

Average exchange rate Q3 2013:

1EUR = 4.25PLN

National bank reserve Q3 2013:

€82.5bnInterest rate

Q3 2013:

2.5%CPI inflation

Q3 2013:

1.1%

EUR/PLNexchange rate Poland has pledged to join the Euro-zone in the long term, but currently the country benefits from remaining outside the single currency area.

July 2008 1EUR = 3.20PLN

February 2009 1EUR = 4.82PLN

Jul. 2008 – Feb. 2009, the złoty loses 1/3 of its value relative to the euro. The drop in the złoty makes

Polish exports more competitive

and raises the relative cost of imports. The resulting boost

in global competitiveness for Polish companies quickly stabilises the

Polish economy.

Average exchange rates Q3 2013:

1USD = 3.21PLN 1CHF = 3.44PLN

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

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Poland’s constitution caps public debt at 60% of GDP – the government cannot take on any financial obligations that would cause that limit to be exceeded. To ensure the level is never breached, Poland has a self-imposed debt threshold of 55% of GDP.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Budget and public debt

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

5.4% GDP

45.7% GDP 47.1% GDP 47.7% GDP 45.0% GDP 47.1% GDP 50.9% GDP 54.8% GDP 56.2% GDP 55.6% GDP

4.1% GDP 3.6% GDP

1.9% GDP

3.7% GDP

7.4% GDP 7.9% GDP

5.0% GDP3.9% GDP

Budget deficit

Public debtBeginning of the global crisis


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Because Poland's labour costs remain considerably lower than in Western Europe, in recent years the country has become a top destination for business process outsourcing and other industries that require advanced skill sets. With one of Europe’s youngest and best-educated populations, Poland delivers motivated talents across all industry segments.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Labour market

July 2004 July 2005 July 2006 July 2007 July 2008 July 2009 July 2010 July 2011 July 2012 July 2013

July 2004 Unemployment rate:

19% July 2013Unemployment rate:

10.3%

The average monthly gross salary in October 2013

was the equivalent of:

€917Almost 60%

of young adults (aged 18-24) in Poland are

enrolled in tertiary education, the second highest ratio

among the OECD countries.

The retirement age was recently raised to

67 years for both men and women.

Beginning of the global crisis.

Unemployment rate:

6.9%


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The dynamic growth of the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) has made Warsaw the leading financial centre in the CEE region, attracting a steady flow of IPOs, both domestic and foreign. WSE, as a well developing company, debuted on its own stock exchange in 2010.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Stock market

Dec 2003 Dec 2004 Dec 2005 Dec 2006 Dec 2007 Dec 2008 Dec 2009 Dec 2010 Dec 2011 Dec 2012 Dec 2013

€210bntotal capitalisation (November 2013)

€60bncapitalisation of foreign companies

(November 2013)

447total companies listed

(November 2013)

46foreign companies listed

(November 2013)

WIG20 blue chip

index change Dec. 2003 - Dec. 2013

+67.85%

17 Feb. 2009WIG20 blue chip index: 1,327.64

20 Oct. 2007WIG20 blue chip

index: 3,917.87

5 Dec 2013WIG20 blue chip

index: 2,497.76

5 Dec 2003WIG20 blue chip index: 1,484.36

€49.6bn2012 total share sales

€200m2012 average share sales per session

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Since the early 1990s, the Polish tax system has been gradually reformed with the intention of encouraging investment and job creation. In general, the taxation system was created in accordance with EU directives.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Key tax rates

19%

18%

23%

32%

8%5%

corporate income tax (CIT)

personal income tax (PIT)

value added tax (VAT)

flat tax

for income below PLN 85k/year

for income above PLN 85k/year

standard rate

reduced rate for certain goods and services

super-reduced rate for certain goods and services

Poland o&ers various tax incentives to investors

through a nationwide network of special economic zones.

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Like any country that has come out of the throws of a communist regime to undergo a democratic transition, Poland has faced its fair share of business opportunists and corrupt officials. According to international figures, however, Poland is the least corrupt country out of all the former countries of the Eastern Bloc.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Corruption level

Poland ranks

the 38th least corrupt out of 177 countries

according to the international corruption watchdog Transparency International corruption perceptions

index for 2013. The 2013 result is a vast improvement on the 58th position Poland received in 2012.

mostcorrupt

leastcorrupt

Poland


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Poland boasts a number of companies of global standing in the chemicals, banking, retail and transport sectors. Some of these are excellent examples of post-communist state giants successfully reformed to perform in free market conditions. Due to space constraints, only a selection of the many Polish companies of global standing could be included.

POLAND’S ECONOMY

Key Polish highflyers

AssecoEurope’s 6th largest software vendor

CD Project REDvideo games developper with worldwide sales

Grupa AzotyEurope’s 2nd largest fertilizer maker

Inglotglobal cosmetics chain

KGHMworld’s number–one producer of silver, major global supplier of copper

Kompania Węglowalargest coal mining company in Europe

LPPregional fashion giant

Maspexbiggest food processing company in CEE

Morpolworld’s largest salmon processor

Pesarolling stock producer, recent deal with Deutsche Bahn for €1.2 bn

PGEthe largest electricity conglomerate in Poland

PGNiGPoland’s incumbent natural gas giant

PKN Orlentop oil refiner in CEE

PKO BPthe largest bank in CEE

PKP CargoEurope’s 2nd largest freight rail operator

PZUBiggest insurance company in CEE

Solarismassive bus and tram producer present in 25 European countries

Techlandvideo games producer with a global reach


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Poland has become one of the top destinations for foreign direct investment in Europe. There are many reasons for this, including the country’s well-educated workforce, competitive labour costs, huge domestic market, location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, as well as numerous tax breaks and incentives for investors. Poland has consistently moved up investment rankings over the years, as successive governments continue to make improvements to the business environment.

POLAND’S INVESTMENT ATTRACTIVENESS


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Year after year, Poland moves up in international rankings for ease of doing business and investment attractiveness. Over the past years, Polish governments have moved to reduce bureaucracy and improve infrastructure. While there is still room to improve, Poland is now the clear leader in its region in terms of its appeal as a destination for business.


The rankings Poland was ranked #1 in the region

by Bloomberg as the best country in which to do

business throughout all of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The news service cited its growing consumer market and improving infrastructure

as key factors. Out of 214 countries, Poland ranked 26th.

Poland placed 50th

in the 2014 Index of Economic Freedom ranking of 178 countries by The Wall Street

Journal and the Heritage Foundation (a rise of 7 places). Poland ranked higher than

such competitors for investment as Hungary, Slovakia, France, Romania and Turkey.

Consultancy firm A.T. Kearney ranked Poland

the 19th best location for FDI in 2013

up 4 places from 2012. Poland ranked ahead

of Taiwan, South Korea and Argentina.

37% of international companies indicated Poland

as the most attractive location in Central and Eastern Europe

according to an EY survey of investment attractiveness. Only 15% of those companies

pointed to the Czech Republic, 8% chose Hungary and 6% said Romania. Ukraine

scored 5%, Turkey 2% and Serbia 1%.

Poland ranked 45th

out of 189 countries for ease of doing business by the

World Bank in 2013 (a rise of 3 places). Xavier Devictor,

World Bank country manager for Poland and the Baltic states, called Poland “champion of the region.”

Top 10 FDI destination countries in Europe in 2012

(by number of projects)

U.K. Germany Spain Russia France Poland Ireland Netherlands Romania Turkey

812 410 278 265 244 237 147 145 138 133


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While labour costs in Poland are still well below those of Western Europe, skill levels are not. Poland has one of the most educated populations in Europe – almost 60 percent of young adults are enrolled in tertiary education. Poles are some of the hardest workers in the world as well, labouring for more hours than their compatriots in most other developed nations. This has led to a raft of investments in business process outsourcing (BPO) and in research and development (R&D) centres in recent years.


LabourBulgaria Hourly labour costs

Enterprises with 10 or more employeesData for 2012

The average Pole worked

1,929 hours in 2012

the fifth highest figure in the OECD, third

in the EU

RomaniaLithuaniaLatvia

PolandHungary

SlovakiaEstonia

€0 €10 €20 €30 €40

Czech Rep.Portugal*Malta

Greece*Slovenia

CyprusSpain

United KingdomEU27

ItalyEA17

IrelandGermanyAustriaFinland

NetherlandsFrance

LuxembourgBelgium

DenmarkSweden

Wages & Salaries Other costs

* Based on a Eurostat estimate for the 4th quarter of 2012. Only the total level is estimated.

10.2%was Poland’s

unemployment rate in November 2013.

Workforce productivity (2012):

$28.1/hour

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Map of special economic zones in Poland

Poland has 14 special economic zones (SEZs), which are administratively separate parts of Polish territory allocated for the running of business on preferential terms. Businesses investing in SEZs can count on tax breaks and other incentives, and can be assured of a specially prepared site. Each SEZ has its own focus: some specialise in serving small and medium-sized enterprises, while others support manufacturing.


Special economic zonesin an SEZ the entrepreneur

can obtain the following privileges:

-tax exemption (CIT or PIT)

-a site fully prepared for development by the investor at a competitive price

-free assistance in dealing with formalities in connection with the investment

-exemption from property tax (in certain areas)

Each SEZ comprises

several locationsmeaning that there is special economic zone

territory in all 16 of Poland's voivodships.

Aside from the SEZs, Poland has

numerous industrial and technology parks

also with preferential benefits for investors.

There are

14 special

economic zones in Poland:

Kamienna Góra Katowice KostrzynSłubiceKraków Mielec

Legnica Łódź

OlsztynSłupskSopot

Starachowice Suwałki

Tarnobrzeg Wałbrzych

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Map of the biggest Polish cities and towns

Poland is unique in its region in that the country’s population is not mostly concentrated around a single city. In fact, Poland boasts 7 metropolitan centres with populations of 1 million people or above. There are also a large number of large to medium sized cities (17 with a population of over 200,000). These cities are spread out across the country, meaning Poland offers a wider array of large markets in which to invest. By 2030, Poland plans to further integrate its metropolitan areas into groupings of a larger scale. This integration will be reflected in common institutions and common legal standards.


Metropolitan areas

Tri-City conurbation

1.2 mln

Poznań agglomeration

1.1 mln

Toruńagglomeration

0.8 mln

Silesia conurbation

2.8 mln

Wrocław agglomeration

1.2 mln

Warsaw agglomeration

3.2 mln

Łódźagglomeration

1.1 mln

Cracow agglomeration

2.1 mln

There are

913 cities and

towns in Poland

(2013)

17 cities have

a population bigger than200,000

8 million people

live in cities bigger than200,000

61% of Poles

(23.5 million) live in towns

or cities

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For an economy to run efficiently, it needs a good system of roads to keep people and goods moving from place to place. In the past few years, Poland has made great strides in this area, significantly increasing its number of express roads and motorways thanks to EU funding. Much of this progress was made in the run-up to the 2012 European football championships. As of the end of 2013, Poland had over 2,800 km of motorways and expressways in use.


Road system

By the end of 2013Poland had:

1,494 km of motorways in use

and

1,335 kmof expressways in use

By the end of 2007Poland had:

674 km of motorways in use

and

248 kmof expressways in use

Map of the planned motorway and expressway network in Poland

Between 2007-2013

Poland ranked #1 in Europe in terms of the growth of the motorway

network

Road safety in Poland is constantly improving, between 2007-2012, the number of accidents per

year fell by about 25% and the number of casualties on national roads decreased by 37%.


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Poland’s actions in the international arena are a reflection of the values that form the foundation of its statehood: democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and solidarity. Since the country’s systemic transformation in 1989, Poland has developed a worldwide reputation as a reliable transatlantic partner as well as a leading European player, acting as a bridge between East and West.

POLAND’S FOREIGN RELATIONS

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Twenty-five years ago Poland was neither democratic nor sovereign. It has come a long way since then. Poland is now an active member of the European Union and NATO, as well as all other leading multilateral organisations.


Architecture of Poland’s international relations

EU

European Union

member since 2004

Organisation for Economic Co-operation

and Developmentmember since 1996

Organization for Security and

Co-operation in Europemember since 1994

Council of Europemember since 1991

European Economic Area member since 2003

G6, Group of Sixmember since 2006

Schengen Area member since 2007

Visegrád Groupmember since 1991Weimar Triangle

member since 1991

NATO

North Atlantic Treaty Organization

member since 1999

UN

UnitedNations

member since 1945

IMF

International Monetary

Fundmember since 1986

WTO

World Trade Organisation

member since 1995


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Despite numerous changes of government – within a decade Poland held four parliamentary elections, had eight Prime Ministers and five Ministers of Foreign Affairs – Poland’s pro-EU and pro-NATO stance has stood firm since 1989.


Poland’s Foreign MinistersK. Skubiszewski Sep. 1989 – Oct. 1993

A. Olechowski Oct. 1993 – Mar. 1995

W. BartoszewskiMar. 1995 – Dec. 1995

D. Rosati Dec. 1995 – Oct. 1997

B. GeremekOct. 1997 – Jun. 2000

W. BartoszewskiJun. 2000 – Oct. 2001

W. Cimoszewicz Oct. 2001 – Jan. 2005

A. Rotfeld Jan. 2005 – Oct. 2005

S. Meller Oct. 2005 – May 2006

A. Fotyga May 2006 – Nov. 2007

R. SikorskiNov. 2007 – Present

Włodzimierz Cimoszewicz

Before acting as Foreign Minister in Leszek Miller’s

and Marek Belka’s governments, he was Prime MInister himself

between 1996 and 1997.

Along with Leszek Miller, he signed the

Accession Treaty that paved the way for

Polish membership in the European Union.

Władysław Bartoszewski

Fought in the Warsaw Uprising;

survivor of Auschwitz concentration camp.

Awarded dozens of honours and

titles including the Order of the White Eagle and Legion of

Honour (France).

Recognized by Israel as a ‘Righteous among

the Nations’ for his role in rescuing Jews during World War 2.

Bronisław Geremek

Escaped from the Warsaw Ghetto with his

mother in 1943 when he was nine years old.

One of the leaders of the Round Table

negotiations that helped pave the way for elections in 1989.

Helped negotiate and sign Poland’s

accession to NATO.

Krzysztof SkubiszewskiFirst Foreign Minister of the Third Republic

of Poland.

Graduate of Harvard University (1958),

In 1993, he was appointed as an ad

hoc judge in the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

Radosław Sikorski

Granted political asylum in Britain after martial law was declared in December 1981.

Worked as a war correspondent in Afghanistan and Angola during

the 1980s.

Awarded the World Press Photo Award

in 1987 for one of his Afghanistan photos.


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Poland joined the European Union in May 2004 after completing comprehensive structural reforms. Ten years after its accession, Poland is now one of the most pro-European member states and an advocate for other countries in the region. It is also the biggest beneficiary of EU cohesion funds. EU membership has helped strengthen Poland’s democracy as well as increase its economic prosperity and open new markets. Poland is now the 6th largest economy in the EU.


European Union

Janusz LewandowskiCurrent EU Budget and Financial Programming

Commissioner

Danuta Hübner

Former EU Commissioner for Regional Policy

(2004-2009). First EU Commissioner

from Poland.

“Our mission mirrors the work of an entire Polish

administration and our team consists of experts from

most of the governments’ departments. Our goal is to combine the interests of Poland with ideas for

the future of our continent. We participate in all the

discussions on Europe while taking care that Polish views

are well understood and reflected in EU decisions.

We represent Poland as we know it: a country having experienced European solidarity can largely

participate in mastering common challenges.”

Marek PrawdaAmbassador, Permanent Representative of Poland to the European Union

38

million citizens(505 million in total in the EU)

27votes in the EU Council(352 in total)

49members in the EU Parliament(766 in total)

Jerzy Buzek

Former President of the European Parliament

(2009-2012), and former Prime Minister of Poland 1997-2001

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Poland took over the EU Council Presidency on the 1 July 2011. With the spirit of solidarity, despite the economic crisis, Poland achieved significant results and made progress on many issues. The six-pack agreement to improve budget discipline by member states and the signature of the Croatian Accession Treaty are the key achievements of the Polish Presidency. Significant achievements also came in the field of improving the security of EU citizens, supporting the EU single market and strengthening relations as a part of the Eastern Partnership. During the Presidency Poland significantly improved its position and reputation in Europe.


Polish Presidency of the EU Council

“Poland demonstrated extraordinary

capacity during probably the most

di)cult period since European

integration started.”Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission

“The Polish Presidency was without a doubt one of the very best presidencies we have had.”

Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament

The Presidency logo was created by

Jerzy Janiszewski, designer of the now world-famous

‘Solidarność’ logo which became the historic

symbol of Poland’s transition to freedom and democracy.

184 days1,200 trained experts80 liaison o)cersOver 30,000 delegates attending meetings in Poland50 ministerial meetings in 5 Polish citiesMore than 300 expert meetings and 200 events under the auspices of the PresidencyAround 1,500 meetings in Brussels and Luxembourg 53 legislative acts adopted during the Presidency

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Poland is committed to helping its neighbours become part of the political, economic andsocial modernisation processes promoted by the European Union. The European Endow-ment for Democracy, initiated in May 2013, and the Eastern Part-nership, a joint Polish-Swedish scheme launched in May 2009, are two examples of Poland’s increasing international clout.


Poland’s international initiatives

Promotes democracy throughout the EU neighbourhood. Assists civil society organisations, young pro-democracy leaders and independent media outlets. Financed from European Commission funds and member state contributions. Largest contributors include Poland (€5m). EED Executive Director: Jerzy Pomianowski, former Polish Deputy Foreign Minister.

Reinforces bilateral and multilateral European ties with Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. Boosts co-operation in areas such as good governance, human rights and sustainable development. Includes joint e&orts regarding visa facilitation, border control and legal integration based on common standards and norms.

Promotes democratic rules and norms around the world. Established in 2000 at a ministerial conference in Warsaw. An initiative of Bronisław Geremek, Poland’s Foreign Minister, and Madeleine Albright, US Secretary of State. The Community was based on the declaration ‘Towards a Community of Democracies’, signed by representatives of 106 countries.


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Maintaining good relations with all of its neighbours is one of Poland’s main priorities and it is therefore an active member of regional co-op-eration structures. These structures include the Viseg-rád Group (Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary and Slova-kia) and the Weimar Triangle (Poland, France and Germany). Poland’s leading role within the Visegrád Group and its deep co-operation within the frame-work of the Weimar Triangle strengthens its position within European decision-making.


Regional co-operation structures

Weimar Triangle

Poland

Germany Slovakia

Balance of votes in the EU Council

Hungary

Czech RepublicFrance

European Union28 member countries

58 votes

58 votes

France (29) Poland (27)

Czech Republic (12)

Hungary (12)

Slovakia (7)

Germany (29)

Visegrád Group

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Democratic elections and the coming to power of a non-com-munist government in 1989 allowed Poland to develop an independent foreign policy and start setting its sights on NATO membership. Poland became a member of NATO in March 1999 – but it was a long, and at times tricky, journey.


North Atlantic Treaty Organization

June 1989

The Polish Round Table Agreement produces partially open parliamentary elections

Dec. 1991

Collapse of the Soviet Union. Poland normalizes relations with its Eastern neighbours

Sept. 1993

President Lech Wałęsa, in a letter addressed to the NATO Sec-retary General, states that NATO mem-bership is one of Poland’s foreign policy priorities

Sept. 1997

Accession talks between NATO and Poland com-mence

Mar. 1991

Dissolution of the Warsaw Pact military structure

Sept. 1993

Last soldiers of the 58,000- strong Red Army contin-gent leave the country after 48 years of deployment in Poland

Sept. 1993

NATO invites Poland to join the Part-nership for Peace (PfP) programme

12 March 1999, Poland's Foreign Minister Bronisław Geremek signs the Act of Accession to NATO in Independence, Missouri, USA.

Dec. 1997

Poland signs Protocols of Accession

Mar. 1999

Poland joins NATO

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Polish soldiers, sometimes under foreign command, such as the lancers in Napoleon’s army, have a long history of fighting abroad. To this day, Poland continues to take part in a number of peacekeeping missions within the framework of the UN, NATO, the EU and the OSCE. Over the last 10 years some 30% of Poland’s 100,000 troops have gained combat experience on foreign deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2014 Poland is due to become one of the few NATO nations with a certified ability to lead joint multinational allied special operations.


Foreign missions

CambodiaUNTAC

1992-1993

IraqIraqi Freedom / MND CS

2003-2008

CongoEUFOR RD Congo

2006

SyriaUNDOF

1974-2009

118 fallen Polish soldiers on foreign missions

since WWII

ChadEUFOR Tchad/RCA

2008-2009

HaitiUphold Democracy

1994

KosovoKFOR

1999-present

AfghanistanEnduring Freedom

2002-2009ISAF

2004-present

CroatiaUNCRO

1995

LebanonUNIFIL

1992-2009

Bosnia and Herzegovina

IFOR1996

EUFOR Althea 2004-present

former Yugoslavia

UNPROFOR 1992-1995

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Across Europe and beyond, Poland has received praise for its economic growth, political stability and its governance. The London-based Brand Finance Institute has ranked Poland as one of the world’s Top 20 most valuable national brands.


Brand Polska

The Miracle Next Door: Poland Emerges as a Central European Powerhouse25 May 2012 By Erich Follath and Jan Puhl

Germans used to think of Poland as a country full of car thieves and post-communist drabness. On the eve of hosting the European Football Championship, however, the country has become the most astonishing success story in Eastern Europe. Relations between Ber-lin and Warsaw have never been better. There are cities that are as uninteresting as the stone they are made of, rigid and heavy, done up as stylishly as if they had been (...)

How Poland Became Europe’s Most Dynamic Economy27 Nov 2013 | By Stephan Faris

With much of Europe still strug-gling to recover from the impact of the 2008 financial crisis, Poland stands out as an unlikely island of economic success, a place where companies and individuals plan for growth rather than decline. In 2009, when the gross domestic product of the European Union contracted by 4.5 percent, Poland was the only country in the union to see its economy grow, by 1.6 percent. The EU economy as a whole remains smaller than it was at the begin-ning of 2009 and isn’t expected to recover its losses until the end of (...)

Poland’s Beautiful Victory02 Jul 2012 | By Philip Boyes

It has become a ritual for Polish soccer fans to chant ‘nic sie nie stalo’ (nothing bad has happened) after their national team gets pre-maturely eliminated from a tourna-ment, as is usually the case. Euro 2012, co-hosted by Poland, was no exception. But this time something did happen. Over the past month, Polish patriotism has evolved from a mournful sense of victimhood rooted in the past to a more pro-gressive and positive patriotism. It is this gelling of Polish national identity that could become the true legacy of Euro 2012. The next few months will be crucial in deciding whether this shift marks a definitive turning point — as it did with Ger-many after their 2006 World Cup — or if it is merely a passing fad. Financially, the tournament will (...)

Learning from abroad:Don’t forget Poland18 Dec 2012 | By M.C.K.

While it gets less attention than India or China, Poland has been one of the world’s great development success stories of the past two decades. This is due in no small part to the policies it pursued after the end of Com-munist rule. One of the architects of those policies, Leszek Balce-rowicz, was the subject of a long interview in this weekend’s Wall Street Journal. The article is worth reading, although Mr Balcerowicz’s narrative of Poland’s success and its applicability to the beleaguered nations of the euro area leaves something to be desired. If you want to understand why Poland had a good crisis, you need (...)

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Poland has come a very long way in the last 25 years, but it was not alone – it had help. That is why Poland takes its duty to help others so seriously. The objective of Poland’s development cooperation is to create conditions for sustainable development within partner countries. This is done through measures such as promoting and consolidating democracy, helping create efficient state institutions, reducing poverty and raising the level of education.


Helping others

Timor Leste Polish funds have helped equip an orphans’ school with modern

computer equipment.

LibyaPolish humanitarian assistance to population a&ected by armed conflict in eastern Libya.

TajikistanPolish assistance in Central Asia

includes support for the professional development of women.

UkrainePolish assistance in the activation and professional development of youth. Palestine

Polish funds have helped improve water supply for Palestinian schools.

LebanonPolish aid has provided homes

to 600 refugee families.

Nepal Polish assistance helps revive

Nepalese countryside.

Belarus Poland has supplied medical equipment for the Vitebsk

Regional Diagnostic Centre.

Egypt Polish funds have equipped

Cairo hospital with medical equipment.

AfghanistanPolish funds have financed a dam

securing water supplies for inhabitants of Tal Bulagh valley in Nawur District.

MoldovaPolish funds have helped increase local milk processing capabilities.


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Polish society is a mixture of old and new, of tradition and modernity. With a population of almost 40 million people, Poles are well-educated, hardworking, entrepreneurial, as well as open to new trends and technologies. Polish society has moved on quickly from the grim communist period to a free-market economy and is a key member of the European Union. Yet it has not forgotten about its past and has kept its identity. Tradition, helping others and religion still play an important role in people’s lives, and family life is seen as the core component of happiness.

POLAND’S SOCIETY


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With over 38 million people, the 34th largest population in the world, Poland is a significant player not only on the European stage, but also in the global arena. There are a large number of people of Polish origin around the world too, a figure estimated at some 21m people.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Demographics

Poland’s population is the 8th largest in Europe, 6th largest

in the EU and 34th largest in the world

Russia Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Ukraine Poland Romania Netherlands

38.5 millioninhabitants

life expectancy for men

72 years

For every 100 men there are 106 women in Poland. 71%

of Poles consider themselves to be happy or very happy

in their everyday life. Only 3% consider themselves to be

unhappy

life expectancy for women

81 years


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Poland’s population is one of the most homogenous in Europe, with 97.1% being Polish. Amongst them, however, there are several ethnic and national groups bringing a dash of diversity to the population. They include Germans, Ukrainians and Belarusians. The largest, Silesians and Kashubians, are considered linguistic or regional groups rather than ethnic minorities. Some 87.5% of the population declare themselves to be Roman Catholic.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Homogenous nation

nationality

religion

97.1%Polish

87.5%Roman Catholic

0m 5m 10m 15m 20m 25m 30m 35m

This homogeneity is a relatively recent development in Polish society, a result of the tumultuous aftermath of

World War II. Previously throughout its history, Poland had been one of the most diverse nations in Europe.

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There are 123 people per square kilometre in Poland, a figure lower than in most Western European countries. Almost 61% of Poles live in towns or cities, compared to an average of 73% in the rest of Europe. The largest metropolitan area in Poland is the Warsaw agglomeration with a population of 3.2 million. The second largest metropolitan area is the conurbation of more than 10 cities of Upper Silesia, which has a population of 2.8 million.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Towns & cities

Capital city: Warsaw (1.7m pop.)

Main cities: Kraków (0.76m)Łódź (0.74m)

Wrocław (0.63m)Poznań (0.55m)Gdańsk (0.46m)Szczecin (0.4m)Katowice (0.3m)

Density:

123/km2 83rd in the world

There are

913 cities and towns in Poland

61% of Poles live

in towns or cities

Warsaw agglomeration

3.2 million

Warsaw city 1.7 million


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POLAND’S SOCIETY

The Polish diasporaCzech Republic 100,000

Australia 200,000

Lithuania 300,000Russia 300,000

Argentina 500,000United Kingdom 500,000

Belarus 900,000Ukraine 900,000 Poles participated in the creation of first European settlements

in the New World. General Pułaski and general Kościuszko are among the founders of the United States of America.

Nowadays, the biggest Polish city worldwide is Chicago with

1.8 million inhabitants of Polish origin which makes it even bigger than Warsaw

(within its administrative borders).

A large proportion of Polish nationals who emigrated were Polish

Jews, who also make up part of the Jewish diaspora. The Second Polish Republic (1918-1939) was

home to the world’s largest Jewish population. Pre-war Warsaw, with 500,000 Jewish inhabitants, was

the second biggest

Jewish city in the world after New York.

Canada 900,000France 1 million

Brazil 1.8 million

Germany 2 million

USA 10 million

Kazakhstan 100,000

The total number of Poles around the world is estimated at between 55 to 60 million, with up to 30% of that number living outside Poland. This makes the Polish diaspora one of the largest in the world. Reasons for this displacement vary from border shifts, forced expulsions and resettlement that have taken place through centuries, to the more recent political and economic emigration.

up to

60 millionpeople of Polish nationality

or descent live around the world.

up to

30%of people with Polish nationality

or descent live outside the borders of Poland

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26% of Poles want

to have at least three children.

The average fertility rate is

1.30children per woman.

49% of Poles want

to have two children.

85% of Poles consider family to

be the highest value in their life and the main factor contributing

to their happiness.

Poles work

1,937 hours a yearcompared to the OECD average of 1,776 hours.

Poland is a family-oriented nation. According to several reports, Polish people value family very highly. 85% of Poles state that family life is indispensible to making people happy and only four percent of people living in Poland want to be single. Polish people are generally happy with their lives. Some 83% say they have mostly positive experiences on any given day.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Family and work first

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Poland has been the largest net recipient of EU funds, funds which have mainly gone towards regional development and improving infrastructure. Poles have also contributed greatly to the economies of other EU members, with an estimated two million Poles living in other European Union countries. Poland is one of the most pro-EU countries in the bloc. In a recent survey by the Pew Research Centre, Poland came out as the most supportive, with 68% favouring membership.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

A pro-European country

20x30 m The biggest European Union flag ever was unrolled on 14 April 2009 by Polish students in Brussels to celebrate the 5th anniversay of Poland's accession to the EU.

10 years after accession

68% of Poles support Poland's

membership of the European Union.

An estimated

2 million Poles live in other EU countries.

10 years after accession

34% of Poles support the idea of

further EU integration.

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Poles are connected. There are more mobile phones than people and most, 60%, use the internet every day. 76% of Poles have access to the internet at home, many through smartphones.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Connected society

96.1% of Poles access the internet every day or at least a few times a week.

54% of Poles who access the internet

do so using smartphones.

A total of

56 million SIM cards are in operation in Poland.

On average Poles spend

11 hours a week

online.

75% of Polish internet users buy online.

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According to international surveys, Poland is one of the most generous countries in the world. An example of this is the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (WO#P), which started in 1993. Every year, after Christmas, Poles donate money to the charity, most of which goes to buying medical equipment for Poland’s hospitals.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

A generous nation

Every year

120,000 volunteers

collect money for the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity.

over

$170m has been raised

by WOŚP since 1993.

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In education, Poles perform well compared to other countries. In a recent international survey, Poland ranked 14th in mathematics in the world and 6th in Europe, 9th in sciences in the world and 3rd in Europe, and 10th in reading in the world and 3rd in Europe. Over half of 19- to 24-year-olds study at universities, while 39% of 25-34 year-olds hold a university-level degree, more than the average across the EU21 countries (36%). Over 63% of university graduates have obtained a master's degree, the highest figure in the world.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Skilled, educated, smart and talented

89% of adults have finished high

school, compared with an OECD average of 74%.

Students'performance in reading:

518 ptsOECD average: 496 pts

(2012 PISA study)

Students' performance

in mathematics:

518 pts OECD average: 494 pts

(2012 PISA study)

Students' performance

in science:

526 ptsOECD average: 501 pts

(2012 PISA study)

Second languages spoken:

English: 30%Russian: 19%German: 11%French: 2%

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Poles form one of the most entrepreneurial societies in Europe. This is not only down to education, but mostly due to their openness, courage and creativity when it comes to business. Poles, especially women and young people, are some of the most entrepreneurial and innovative people in the world.

Almost

1,000 new companies

are established every day in Poland.

27%of people plan to set up

their own company, the 3rd highest score in Europe after Latvia

and Romania.

70%of young people in Poland view the idea of self-employment positively, one of the highest proportions in Europe.

POLAND’S SOCIETY

Spirit of entrepreneurship


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The spirit of democracy has survived in Poland despite many trials and tribulations, including long periods of foreign occupation and years of communist subjugation which left the country politically and economically bankrupt. Over the last 25 years consecutive Polish governments have successfully re-built a strong and stable political system rooted in the rule of law and supported by democratic political institutions.

POLAND’S ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

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Poland is a pioneer of European constitutionalism. In 1791 the King and Parliament of the Commonwealth of Poland and Lithuania passed Europe’s first written national constitution, later called the Constitution of May 3rd. Poland’s current constitution was adopted by the National Assembly of Poland on 2 April 1997. The Constitution provides for the foundations of Poland’s socio-political system. It also guarantees the basic personal, political, economic, social and cultural rights of its citizens.


The Polish Constitution

The Constitution of May 3rd was the first written national constitution in Europe and

the second in the world after the U.S. Constitution.


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Polish politics is played out within the framework of a par-liamentary representative democratic republic, whereby the Prime Minister is the head of government of a multiparty system and the President is the head of state. Executive power is exercised by the Council of Ministers, which is headed by the Prime Minister. Legisla-tive power is vested in both the government and the two chambers of parliament.


Overview of legal system

Sejmlower chamber of the parliament

(460 deputies)

Passes bills by majority vote in the presence of at least half of the

statutory number of deputies.

Senatehigher chamber of the parliament

(100 deputies)

Amends or rejects bills prepared by the lower chamber.

Presidentsigns the bill

or rejects it (veto).

Constitutional Tribunalchecks the constitutionaility

of the bill upon a request from the President.

Legislative initiative- Deputies (15) Sejm committee- Senate- President- Council of Ministers- 100,000 citizens

The bill gains the force of law only after it is

signed by the President and published in the

Journal of Laws.


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In Poland the courts, with the Supreme Court at their head and together with the independent State Tribunal and Constitutional Tribunal, ensure the rule of law.


Overview of judiciary system

Supreme CourtSupervises adjudication in

General courts, which adjudicate in the areas of civil, criminal, family and labour law.

Military courts, which deal with matters relating to crimes committed by soldiers in active service, civilian employees in military units, and prisoners of war.

Administrative courts, which is a separate court system dealing with rulings on the legal compliance of decisions taken by administrative bodies.

Constitutional TribunalJudicial body established to resolve disputes on the constitutionality of the activities of state institutions.

Made up of 15 judges chosen by the Sejm for nine-year terms. They are fully independent.

Constitutes one of the formal guarantees of a state grounded on the rule of law.

State TribunalResponsible for examining cases concerning the infringement of the Constitution and crimes committed by the President of the Republic of Poland, members of government and other senior state o!cials.

Empowered to rule for the removal of individuals from public o!ce, to impose injunctions on individuals against their appointment to senior o!ces and to revoke an individual’s right to stand for election.

The composition of the State Tribunal is established at the first sitting of each new parliament and is binding for its term.

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There are 41 constituencies in Poland, each allotted between 7 and 19 seats. Each constituency provides a candidate list and members of that district vote on the candidates they want to elect. These votes are then counted in the national aggre-gate to determine the proportion each party will receive. The par-ties of each constituency then elect candidates who received the most votes in their district. Additionally, a threshold is used so that candidates are chosen only from parties that gained at least 5% of the nationwide vote.


Electoral system

Presidental term:5 years

Eligibility:age: 35 yearsPolish citizenshipcannot be a member of a political party

54.94% was the turnout for the first round of the last presidential election in Poland (2010). Turnout for the second round was 55.31%

48.92% was the turnout for the last parliamentary elections in Poland.

Political system:multiparty

Voting system:proportional

Election threshold:participation in allocation of seats: 5% of the total votes cast for party list; 8% for a coalition list.

Constituencies:41 multi-member

Designation mode:directly elected

Voter requirements: age: 18 yearsPolish citizenship

Structure of parliament:bicameral

Number of seats:lower chamber: 460upper chamber: 100

Parliamentary term:4 years

Eligibility:age: 21 yearsPolish citizenshippermanent residence in the country for not less than five years Voting is not compulsory.

2014/2015 elections:

May 2014 European Parliament

elections

June 2015 Presidential elections

October 2015 Parliamentary elections

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As in other European countries, the Polish parliament as a rep-resentative body took shape through an evolutionary pro-cess. The General Sejm sitting at Piotrków which started in January 1493 was of special significance in that process. It was then that a bicameral parliament was established, consisting of the Senate and the House of Deputies. For the next three centuries the Polish Sejm remained the main institution of the so-called ‘noble democracy’, a unique political system where the nobility, which accounted for more than 10% of Poland’s total population, controlled the legislature and elected the king.


Parliament

Election term:

4 years

structure of the Sejm:

MarshalPresidium- marshal- vicemarshals

Council of Seniors- marshal- vicemarshals- chairmen of parliamentary clubs- chief of the Chancellery of the Sejm

Standing Committees27 permanent legislative panels dedicated to di&erent areas of interest. Committees consider bills and issues and recommend measures for consideration by their respective parliamentary clubs.

Parliamentary caucuses parliamentary representations of political parties.

100seats

in the upper chamber(Senate)

460seats

in the lower chamber(Sejm)

500 years of parliamentary tradition

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Poland's political structure is based on a multiparty system. In the parliamentary, presidential, and local elections candidates supported by significant political parties stand a better chance of success. The political parties in Poland represent a broad range of public consensus, with groups which may be classified as social-democratic, liberal, conservative, national, rural-interest, or populist. Fascist, nazi and communist parties are prohibited by Polish constitution.


Political parties

Platforma Obywatelska

Civic Platformleader:

Donald Tusk

Ruling parliamentary coalition:

Platforma ObywatelskaPolskie Stronnictwo Ludowe232 seats in the Sejm out of 460 in total (as of 1 Jan. 2014)

registration policy:

at least 1,000 supporters signatures are required to register a political party in Poland.

Parties are listed in order of the size of their representation in parliament as of as of 1 Jan. 2014

In the first years of transformation after 1989, the political divide was a clear-cut line between parties that emerged from the anti-communist opposition, and the parties that emerged from the pre-1989 communist monoparty. Currently, this division has become somewhat less distinct, and in many ways the Polish political scene now resembles European and global patterns.

Prawo i Sprawiedliwo!"

Law & Justiceleader:

Jaros!aw Kaczy"ski

Polskie Stronnictwo

LudowePolish People’s Party

leader: Janusz Piechoci!ski

Sojusz LewicyDemokratycznej

Democratic Left Alliance

leader: Leszek Miller

Twój Ruch

Your Movementleader:

Janusz Palikot

Solidarna Polska

United Poland leader:

Zbigniew Ziobro

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The Council of Ministers is the collective executive deci-sion-making body of the Polish government. The President appoints the leader of a stable political majority in the par-liament as Prime Minister. His cabinet is composed of 19 min-isters, who themselves don’t have to be deputies to the parlia-ment. The Council of Ministers is collectively and individually responsible to the Sejm for all the operations of the government.


Government

Prime MinisterDonald Tusk, PO

Minister of EconomyJanusz Piechociński, PSL (Deputy Prime Minister)

Minister of Infrastructure and DevelopmentElżbieta Bieńkowska, PO, (Deputy Prime Minister)

Minister of Administration and DigitizationRafał Trzaskowski, PO

Minister of Agriculture and Rural DevelopmentStanisław Kalemba, PSL

Minister of Culture and National HeritageBogdan Zdrojewski, PO

Minister of EnvironmentMaciej Grabowski, independent

Minister of FinanceMateusz Szczurek, PO

Minister of Foreign A&airs Radosław Sikorski, PO

Minister of HealthBartosz Arłukowicz, PO

Minister of InteriorBartłomiej Sienkiewicz, independent

Minister of JusticeMarek Biernacki, PO

Minister of Labour and Social PolicyWładysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, PSL

Minister of National DefenceTomasz Siemoniak, PO

Minister of National EducationJoanna Kluzik-Rostkowska, PO

Minister of Science and Higher EducationLena Kolarska-Bobińska, PO

Minister of Sport and TourismAndrzej Biernat, PO

Minister of State TreasuryWłodzimierz Karpiński, PO

Chief of the ChancelleryJacek Cichocki, independent

The Council of Ministers is currently composed of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s second cabinet, a coalition between the senior Civic Platform (PO) party and its junior partner, the Polish People’s Party (PSL).

Parliamentary support:

232

votes out of 460(as of 1 Jan. 2014)

Head of the council of ministers:

DonaldTusk

Members of the cabinet(below), as of 1 Jan. 2014

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The President of the Republic of Poland is the head of state, the supreme representative of Poland on the global stage and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He has executive authority and a right to dissolve the parliament in certain cases. The President has the possibility to initiate the legislative process as well as the opportunity to directly influence it by using his veto to stop a bill. He is elected directly by the citizens.


The Presidency

The President performs his duties with the help of the following o!ces:

O)ce of National Security

eligibility:

5 yearsIn order to be registered as

a candidate in the presidential election, one must be a Polish citizen, be at least 35 years old on the day of the first round of the election and collect at least

100,000 signatures of supporters.

Presidential flag Commander-in-Chief of the Armed

Forces of the Republic of Poland

Current President of Poland:

Bronisław Komorowski- former anti-communist

opposition activist- former Member of Parliament- former Minister of Defence - former Marshal of the Sejm

Previous Presidents: Lech Wałęsa (1990-1995)

Aleksander Kwaśniewski (1995-2005)

Lech Kaczyński (2005-2010)


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Public administration is run by local government and organs of the state administration. Local government is run by the voivodship ‘Sejmik’ (local parliament), voted in every four years in general and local elections. The executive is represented by the mayoral office, run by the mayor who is chosen by the ‘Sejmik’. The central authority is represented by the voivodship authority, run by the voivode, chosen by the Prime Minister. The voivode supervises the voidvodship authority.


Local government

Since 1999 Poland's administrative order has been based on three levels of subdivision. The biggest voivodships (regions) are further divided into powiats (counties) and these in turn

are divided into gminas (communes or municipalities).

voivodship gminapowiat

16 voivodships

380 powiats

2,479 gminas


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At various times in its history Poland has had an empire which stretched from the Baltic to the Black Sea, was one of the most cosmopolitan and tolerant nations in Europe, disappeared completely from the map, incurred debilitating losses during war, and was subjugated by foreign powers. But it has never lost hope nor its unquenchable desire for freedom and independence, its fighting spirit or its unbreakable sense of nationhood. Today the country stands tall amongst the community of nations, an economic, political and cultural leader in Europe, and a beacon of hope for oppressed and transitional nations; that democracy is attainable, even against seemingly insurmountable odds.

POLAND’S HISTORY UNTIL 1989


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There have been many events which have contributed to shaping Poland into the country that it is today. Those presented here only provide snapshots of the nation’s dramatic story, but they offer insights into the unique and extraordinary Polish national identity.


Main historical events966The Christianisation of Poland Poland’s first ruler, Mieszko I, his wife and his court, are baptized. This heralds the conversion of Poland to Christianity.

1791The Constitution of May 3rd Stanisław August Ponia-towski, the last king of the Polish-Lithuanian Common-wealth, adopts the Consti-tution of May 3rd, widely acknowledged as being the first constitution in Europe and the second in the world after the U.S. Constitution.

1025Kingdom of Poland Coronation of Bolesław the Brave. Poland becomes a kingdom under the rule of the Piast dynasty.

1772The Partitions

Poland’s su&ers three partitions during its history. The first two, which take place in 1772 and 1793, see Prussia, Austria and Russia annex its eastern and western lands. The third, in 1795, sees the Commonwealth disappear from the map.

1385The Polish-Lithuanian Dynastic Union Polish queen regent Jadwiga marries the Grand Duke of Lithuania, who adopts the title Władysław II Jagiełło and founds the Jagiellonian dynasty. From now on the Polish king rules the two countries jointly. The Polish-Lithuanian empire is born.

1918Polish Independence

Under the firm guidance of general Józef Piłsudski, Poland finally becomes a state again after 123 years under foreign rule.

1569The Union of Lublin Spurred on by conflicts with the ever powerful Russia and the failure of Sigismund II Augustus, king of Poland, to bear children – thus threatening the continuation of the Jagiellonian line - Poland and Lithuania enter into a commonwealth e&ectively becoming a single state.

1939The Begining of WWII

The worst of all wars starts by a joint invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany and the USSR. The post-war global order created by Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin puts Poland within the Soviet sphere of influence. This heralds the start of a long and painful period of Communism in Poland.

1573The First Free Election Sigismund II Augustus dies without having fathered an heir. He is the last of the Jagiellonian dynasty. His death prompts the first free elections, attended by some 40,000 Polish nobles. From now on every Polish king is freely elected by the noblemen.

1989Polish Sovereignty Following a peaceful revolution Poland regains its sovereignty and becomes a democratic state, re-claiming its rightful place amongst the community of nations.

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Early beginnings

992-1025Bolesław Chrobry

Bolesław Chrobry (Bolesław the Brave), son of Mieszko I, was Poland’s first king. The exact details of his coronation remain ambiguous,

although it is widely believed that he was accepted as the King of Poland by the international

community when Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor turned to him for military assistance.

960-992 Mieszko I

The founder of the Piast dynasty that was to rule Poland for the next 400 years. Mieszko’s marriage in 965 to the Czech Přemyslid princess Dobrawa and his baptism in 966 put him and his country in the cultural sphere of Western Christianity.

Both monarchs are pictured here on their common tomb in Poznań Cathedral.

The baptism of Mieszko I (966) is widely regarded as the begin-ning of Poland’s statehood. It is also an event which saw Poland surface as a country on the European map. Mieszko I took the title of Poland’s crown prince.

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The Battle of Grunwald(1410)

On 15 July 1410, the alliance of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania dealt a decisive blow to the Teutonic Knights during one of the larg-est battles of Medieval Europe, widely known as the Battle of Grunwald. Both the Poles and the Lithuanians had engaged in territorial disputes with the Knights for decades, but when W.adys.aw II Jagie..o of Lithu-ania married Queen Jadwiga of Poland in 1385 and converted to Christianity, the Teutonic Order lost its religious rationale for its continued raids on Lithuanian lands. The Order never fully recovered from its loss in the bat-tle, while the Polish-Lithuanian alliance went on to nearly 400 years of dominance in the region.

Władysław II Jagiełło

King of Poland, supreme commander of Polish-Lithuanian forces

led 20,000 mounted nobles, 15,000 armed commoners and

2,000 professional cavalry

Ulrich von JungingenGrand Master of the Teutonic

Knights (killed in action) led 16,000 cavalry, 5,000 infantry

and 500 Knights of the Cross.

Vytautas the Great

Grand Duke of Lithuanialed 11,000 light cavalry

The Battle of Grunwald depicted in a painting by Jan Matejko.

King Jagiełło's bronze monument in New York's Central Park.


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The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth

modern dayPoland

(312,679 km2)

In 1618 the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth spanned

a grand total of

990,000 km2

The Union of Lublin (1569)heralded the creation of Poland and Lithuania as a federation. The Commonwealth, which was divided into the ‘Crown’ (Poland) and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, is widely regarded as a precursor to modern day democratic states. The power structure consisted of the king, a senate and a lower parliament in which sat the regional nobility. Even though government was largely centralized, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania retained an autonomous army, treasury, judiciary, administrative body and legal system.

The Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth was marked by high levels

of ethnic diversity and by relative religious tolerance, guaranteed by the Warsaw Confederation Act (1573)

The Commonwealth state was established on a formal level at the Union of Lublin in July 1569, but the actual dynastic union occured much earlier,

in 1386 when Polish queen regent

Jadwiga married the Grand Duke of Lithuania, who

adopted the title Władysław II Jagiełło and founded

the Jagiellonian dynasty.

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Poland occupies the Kremlin (1610)

Poland is one of the only foreign powers, apart from the Mongols and the French Empire under Napoleon, to have ever occupied Moscow. During the Polish-Muscovite War of 1605-1618, Polish troops captured Tsar Vasili IV, the last member of the Rurikid dynasty, and brought him to Warsaw. He died a prisoner one year later in the castle of Gostynin, near Warsaw. Meanwhile Polish prince Wladyslav IV Vasa briefly held the title of Russian Tsar. The Poles lost Moscow in 1612.

This period in Poland’s history brought fame to

the mounted Hussars horse cavalry

One of their most notable victories was the Battle of Kłuszyn where they beat the

Russians despite being outnumbered 5 to 1.

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Noble Democracy

The first free election of the king took place in 1573, when Sigismund II Augustus died without having fathered an heir.

He was the last of the Jagiellonian dynasty. His death prompted the first free elections attended by some

40,000 Polish nobles.

Henceforward every Polish king

was freely elected.

The first regional councils were set up by the nobility

in 1454 This is seen as the starting date

for the Noble Democracy. The ‘Sejm’ – the early form

of parliament – was made up of the king and a chamber of deputies that numbered 170.

The election of StanislausAugustus Poniatowski in 1764,

depicted in a painting by Bernardo Bellotto.

Poland’s Noble Democracy, a country not governed solely by the monarch, was uniquely enlightened for the times. It allowed the nobility, which made up some 10% of Poland’s population, to elect a king. The period is often referred to as ‘Golden Liberty’ due to the extent of the privi-leges enjoyed by the nobles.

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The Constitution of May 3rd (1791)

The Constitution of May 3rd was the first written national constitution in Europe and

the second in the world

after the U.S. Constitution.

In 1773 the Commonwealth created the Commission of National Education, which brought elementary education to ordinary citizens across the state. Because of its vast authority and autonomy, it is considered to be the world’s first Ministry of Education and an important achievement of the Polish Enlightenment.

The Constitution of May 3rd was drawn up to bring back order to a state largely governed on the whim of the nobility. Henceforth any new law had to be in accordance with the constitution. The constitution strived to set up a more democratic state and erase some of the social inequalities prevalent in the old system. Notably it placed peasants under the protection of the government.

The painting by Jan Matejko depicts King Stanislaus Augustus on the streets of Warsaw

just after the new national constitution had been adopted by the Grand Sejm.

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Interbellum (1918-1939)

Within the borders of the Republic in 1918 were the remnants of three di&erent economic

systems, with five di&erent currencies. Following the hyperinflation and monetary

chaos of the years after World War I

the Polish złoty

was reintroduced as Poland’s currency in 1924.

In 1918, Poland rose like a phoenix from the ashes of the three foreign empires which occupied its lands for the previous 123 years – Austro-Hungary, German Empire and Tsarist Russia. Poles began regaining their national identity and rebuilding infrastructure throughout the state. The new republic was faced with the task of economically unifying disparate economic regions, which had previously been part of different countries with little or no direct infrastructural links. Poland maintained a steady level of economic development till 1939.

After the war, Poland gained access to the Baltic coast and the government set about building its

flagship military and trade port in GdyniaBy 1937 the the port of Gdynia had 217,000 m2 of warehousing space, a 12-km-long wharf and 75 cranes.

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The war with Soviet Russia (1919-1920)

Just a few years after regaining independence, Poland faced an onslaught from a Russian army intent on spreading its Bolshevik ideology westwards. The Battle of Warsaw, in which Poland emerged victorious, was called the 18th most-decisive battle in world history by renowned politician and the British ambassador in Berlin at the time, Lord Edgar Vincent D’Abernon.

The spoiis of war: Captured banners

of the Red Army

First Marshal

Józef Piłsudskicommander of Polish forces.

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World War II started in September 1939 when Nazi Germany invaded Poland from the west, followed soon after by the Soviet Union from the east, in accordance with the Ribbentrop-Molotov pact concerning the partition of Eastern Europe. Due to Poland’s geographical location between two totalitarian regimes, it was inevitable that the country would find itself in the middle of the global conflict, and suffered deeply with huge losses in population, wealth and infrastructure.

6 million

Polish citizens lost their lives in WWII, which constituted around

15%of Poland’s pre-war population.

22 Sept. 1939Red Army troops chatting with Wehrmacht

soldiers during a joint victory parade in the Polish town of Brześć Litewski, where the two invading armies met.

11 Feb. 1945The Yalta conference, where the Big Three (UK, US and USSR) decided that post-war Poland would remain

in the Soviet sphere of influence.


World War II

Hundreds of thousands of Poles joined the many underground resistance movements, including 0.38 million in the Home Army, which was directed by the legal government-in-exile in London.

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Jan Karski's mission for humanityIn December 2013, the Pol-

ish parliament unanimously declared 2014 the Year of Jan Karski to mark the centenary of this remarkable man’s birth. During World War II, Karski (1914-2000) was a resistance fighter within the Information and Propaganda Bureau of the Polish under-ground Home Army. Because of his knowledge of languages, his photographic memory, and extensive training as a diplomat, he was frequently used as a courier tasked with secretive missions accross Ger-man occupied Europe. As an emissary of the Polish gov-ernment in exile, he was the first to inform the allies of the extermination of Jews from detailed personal experience.

1940Captured in Slova-kia by the Gestapo and severely tortured, he was later rescued by the Polish underground.

1944 His book, ‘Story of a Secret State’, an account of his mission as an emis-sary of the Polish Underground State and an eyewitness of the Holocaust, is published.

1982 Recognized by Yad Vashem as Righteous Among the Nations.

1941Illegally entered Warsaw’s Jewish ghetto twice in order to report on the deplorable conditions there. Disguised as a prison guard, he infiltrated a transit ghetto in eastern Poland where Jews were being sent to death camps.

1943 Met U.S. President Franklin D. Roo-sevelt and other American leaders, reporting on early evidence of the Holocaust and the Polish resist-ance movement.

1994 Awarded honorary citizenship of Israel.

2012 U.S. President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Jan Karski the Presi-dential Medal of Freedom – the highest civilian award the United States can bestow.

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People’s Republic of Poland(1945-1989)

After WWII Poland’s resistance fighters, known as ‘cursed soldiers’, carried out raids on communist prisons and

encampments, killing scores of Soviet agentsand freeing political prisoners. The last known ‘cursed

soldier’ was killed in an ambush

as late as 1963, almost 20 years after the Soviet takeover of Poland. Pictured is Captain Stanisław Sojczyński, captured

and executed in 1947.

Wrocław, 9 May 1970. Celebrating of the 25th anniversary of the victory over Nazism.

After World War II Poland was left in the Soviet Union’s sphere of influence. It became a satellite state with a puppet communist government. Poles were oppressed by the state apparatus, their religious freedom was restricted. Resistance to communist rule was forced underground for the next 44 years.

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John Paul II encouraged Poles to renew their homeland and opened the door to a peaceful revolution

under the banner of the Solidarność trade union, which eventually led the country to freedom in 1989.

John Paul II

was head of the Catholic Church from 16 October 1978 to his death in 2005. He was the second longest-

serving pope in history and, as a Pole, the first non-Italian since Pope Adrian VI, who died in 1523.

On 16 October 1978, to the surprise of the world, the Polish Cardinal Karol Wojty.a was announced as the new Pope. Taking the papal name John Paul II, he was immediately made it into the hearts of the Polish people as the real leader of the nation. His visits to his homeland attracted vast crowds, eager to take hope and inspiration from his words and example. Not long after his first visit in 1979, the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc was established. This was the beginning of the end for communism in Europe.


The Polish Pope (1978)

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Economic turmoil in Poland in 1980 led to the formation of the independent trade union, Solidarno$0 (Eng: Solidar-ity). Headed by Lech Wa.*sa, it soon became a political force. After Martial Law was declared in December 1981, the trade union persisted solely as an underground organization. By the late 1980s, it had become sufficiently strong to frustrate the communist authorities’ attempts at reform, and nation-wide strikes in 1988 forced the government into open dialogue with Solidarity. This resulted in a peaceful transfer of power, the first free elections in the Eastern Bloc and eventually the transition to a liberal democ-racy and free-market economy.


Fall of communism (1989)

5 Apr. 1989Round Table talks

Negotiations between the communist government and the opposition led to the first democratic elections in

the Eastern Bloc and a peaceful transfer of power.

The famous ‘High Noon’ 1989 election poster

Lech Wałęsa‘Solidarność’ leader, 1983 Nobel Peace

Prize recipient and first president of democratic

Poland (1990-1995)


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It was no foregone conclusion that Poland would become a successful economy. In fact the odds were stacked heavily against it. The road has not been easy, there have been many obstacles along the way, but it has now emerged as the most successful post-communist economy in the world. It is a vibrant democracy and a key partner in the European Union.

POLAND’S TRANSFORMATION

brown bear

grey wolf


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The far-reaching economic and social changes that have taken place in Poland since the 1970s have come about through a combination of many factors; growing social unrest, the rise of the trade union, the fall of the Soviet Union, and ultimately a strong national character prevalent throughout Poland’s road to democracy.


The road to democracy

1970sEdward Gierek, the First Secretary of the Polish United Workers’ Party, racks up an unsustainable debt to the West.

An unproductive centrally planned economy is unable to handle the debt payments.

The spiral of debt leads the country into an economic crisis. Basic goods start disappearing from store shelves.

1980sThe crisis grows and with it the number of protests. An independ-ent trade union known as Solidarność (Eng: Solidarity) becomes the main force behind the protests. An increasing number of workers and intellectuals join Soli-darity. At its height the trade union numbers 10 million members.

In the face of social opposition and a deep-ening economic crisis, the troubled commu-nists begin the famous Round Table Talks.

As a result, in 1989, the first democratic elections in the East-ern Bloc take place. Poland enters the path to reform.

1990sPoland begins its democracy. The communist party is dissolved and media censor-ship ends. The Red Army leaves Poland.

As a result of the reforms, the central-ly-planned economy is replaced by a free market. Foreign debt is restructured. Privatisation begins. The Warsaw Stock Exchange is launched.

The crisis ends in 1992. From then on Poland enjoys uninterrupted economic growth, continuing till this day.

In 1997, a new constitu-tion is passed. In 1999, Poland joins NATO.

2000sPoland joins the European Union in 2004.

After the global financial crisis begins in 2008, Poland is the only EU country which does not experience a single quarter of decline in GDP. It is proclaimed internationally as an economic ‘green island’.

2014Poland is a country that has successfully completed its systemic transformation.

It is a stable democracy with a developped free market, a relia-ble member of the international commu-nity and is playing an increasingly important role in the region.


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The average net monthly salary in 2013 was 2,800 PLN ($900), nominally equal to the average salary in Poland in 1973 ($35). This allows a comparison on how Poles’ purchasing power has changed over the last 40 years.


Salary purchasing power

1973 1973

19731973

1973

1973 1973 1973

1973

31 / 116,kg 52 / 393,kg

903 / 4,666,eggs418 / 1,176,kg

2,800 / 1,138,tickets

140 / 765,packs 700 / 622,kg 165 / 652,sticks

266 / 712,kg

2013 2013

20132013

2013

2013 2013 2013

2013

Ham (kg) Chicken (kg)

Eggs (1)Flour (kg)

Public transportation (ticket)

Tea (100g) Bread (kg) Butter (250g)

Sugar (kg)

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Solidarno$0 (Eng: Solidarity) was an independent trade union founded on 31 August 1980 at the Gda"sk shipyard, as a result of the economic crisis. It was the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc. It soon became the leading communist opposi-tion-force in Poland with mem-bers totalling 1/4 of the entire population. In 1983 its charis-matic leader, Lech Wa.*sa, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.


Solidarno$0 trade union

Lech WałęsaSolidarność leader and

1983 Nobel Peace Prize winner10million

members80% of the total working age population, in contrast to two million members of the communist party.


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The communist government attempted to destroy Solidarity by declaring it illegal and impos-ing martial law on 13 December 1981. The army was ordered onto the streets, detaining around 10,000 opposition members, and a campaign of political repression was carried out across the coun-try. Solidarity adopted a policy of civil resistance, bringing the nation to a standstill, which only deepened the economic crisis. Unable to control the situation, the regime was eventually forced to negotiate with the union.


Martial law (1981-1983)

10,000opposition members detained.

56people are confirmed to have died

due to police action during the strikes and demonstrations, though

the figure may be much higher.

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Tadeusz MazowieckiPrime Minister of the first democratically elected

Polish government after WWII.

The famous ‘High Noon’ 1989 elections poster.

The Round Table talks between the communist government and the Solidarity-led opposition resulted in the first democratic parliamentary elections in the Eastern Bloc. By the end of August 1989, a Solidarity-led coa-lition government was formed under Prime Minister Tadeusz Mazowiecki, and in December 1990 Lech Wa.*sa was elected President of Poland. The coun-try soon changed its name from the People’s Republic of Poland to the Republic of Poland and the crown on the national emblem was reintroduced.


First democratic elections in the Eastern Bloc (1989)


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Following the 1945 expulsion of the Nazis by the Soviet army, the latter remained in Poland for decades to enforce communist rule and protect Eastern Europe from a supposed potential inva-sion by the West. Forty-eight years later, upon the collapse of the Soviet Union, Red Army units began withdrawing from Poland. The last Soviet soldier left the country in the autumn of 1993.


Red Army withdrawal (1991-1993)

58,000Soviet soldiers were based in Poland

at the begining of 1991

59Soviet garrissons were positioned

around the country


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The Balcerowicz Plan, named after Finance Minister Leszek Balcerowicz, was the first ever attempt to switch from a communist to a free market economy. No country had ever attempted it, and success was by no means guaranteed. Although the immediate social costs were huge, today Poland has emerged as the most successful of the European post-communist econ-omies. It was the only EU state which avoided recession during the recent financial crisis.


The switch, then fast recovery

1990 1990 1990 1990 1990 19902012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012

Ukraine+146%

Russia+302%

Poland+650%

Hungary+296%

Czech Rep.+391%

Belarus+292%

$1,705

$3,787 $3,186$1,694

$3,485

$1,570

$6,685

$18,608

$12,622 $12,708$14,037

$3,867

GDP per capitachange(nominal, current prices)


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Poland’s successful transfor-mation was not pre-ordained. It was not inevitable that the communists’ seeming iron control of the country would be broken. It took men and women of courage and foresight. Luckily Poland had several.


Key figures in the transformation

Lech Wałęsa

Leader of ‘Solidarity’ and the first President of the Third

Republic of Poland.

Tadeusz Mazowiecki First democratically elected Prime Minister in the former Soviet Bloc.

Leszek Balcerowicz

Architect of Poland’s economic transformation.

Pope John Paul II

First Polish Pope, widely credited with inspiring Poles to

start a peaceful revolution.


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The ineffective communist economy was often called the ‘shortage economy’. The cen-trally controlled supply of goods was never able to fulfil demand. Compared to the free market, it resulted in low-qual-ity production and a constant lack of products. The innate entrepreneurship of the Polish people soon became the foun-dation of a young economy.


Dramatic contrast

1981 2014

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Polish cities have changed immeasurably over the last decades. Warsaw has been transformed from a dull, under-developed city to the vibrant capital of Central Europe – the region’s undisputed political and economic hub.


Revitalising Polish cities

1981Warsaw city centre

2014Warsaw city centre


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The Warsaw Stock Exchange

€210bntotal capitalisation (November 2013)

€60bncapitalisation of foreign companies

(November 2013)

447total companies listed

(November 2013)

46foreign companies listed

(November 2013)

16 Apr. 1991first day of trading on WSE After it was closed in 1939, the

Warsaw Stock Exchange was re-established on 16 April 1991. Only five companies were listed on the first day of trading. Seven brokerages took part in the trading, and there were 112 buy-and-sell orders with a turn-over of only $2,000. Some 23 years later, the Stock Exchange is the biggest bourse in Central Europe, with a total capitalisa-tion of ¤210bn and an average stock sale of ¤200m per session.

1.5minvestment accounts

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Poland has changed significantly since it joined the European Union in 2004. It is now a major player in the bloc. Poles are consistently rated as the nation with the highest support for the EU compared to other member states. Current statistics show that in 2013 68% of the nation supported EU membership.


European growth leader

2003 2004

Poland joins the EU

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Poland :

46.3%cumulative GDP growth

European Union :

10.9%cumulative GDP growth


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Poland’s achievements in education bode well for the country’s future. The progress of the past 20 years has impressed international educational experts – in many respects Poland has not only caught up to, but exceeded more developed nations. Polish students regularly score highly in international comparisons.

POLAND’S SCIENCE & EDUCATION

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After years of communism, in the 1990s Poland has had to adjust its educational system to the new conditions. A new gov-ernment strategy focused on raising secondary and higher education qualifications, ensur-ing equal educational opportu-nities and improving the general quality of education. According to a recent OECD report, Poland is now one of Europe’s leaders in school performance and other countries may have something to learn from Poland’s example.


Education

In 2012, public expenditure on education amounted to

€15 billionequal to 3.9% of GDP.

In the 2012/2013 school year, 70% of children aged 3-5 obtained various forms of

preschool education

English was taught to

93.2% of all students of primary, lower-

and upper-secondary schools in the 2012/2013 school year. The second most popular foreign language was

German, taught to 38.2% of students.

89% of adults have finished high school,

compared with an OECD average of 74%.

In a PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) 2012 survey

conducted by the OECD in 65 countries,

Polish middle school students were amongst the highest performers. Polish students ranked 9th in science,

10th in reading and 14th in mathematics.

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The number of Poles in higher education is growing. Over half of 19- to 24-year-olds are studying and, in the 25-34 age group, 39% hold a university-level degree, higher than the EU21 countries average of 36%. Tertiary education increases the likelihood of being employed: 85% of 25-64 year-olds with a tertiary education were employed in 2011, compared with 66% of those with an upper secondary qualification.


Higher education

3 years

bachelor's course2 years

master's course

5 years

PhD course

Over

63% of university graduates have obtained a master's degree,

the highest figure in the world.

Each year almost

0.5 million young people begin their education

at universities and colleges.

over 2 million studentsPoland is fourth in Europe (after the U.K., Germany and France) in terms of the number of people enrolled in higher education.

Following the Bologna Process, upon matriculation, standard higher education in Poland consists of a 3-year bachelor's course, a 2-year master's course and a 5-year PhD course.

0 years 5 years 10 years

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The reputation and standard of Polish universities is rising, both as a result of over a decade of concerted effort and improve-ments in the economic environ-ment. Increasing investment in Poland, particularly in the field of IT, has created better prospects for young people.


Poland’s top universities

234th Warsaw

University

311thCracow’s

Jagiellonian Universityin Cracow

393rdAdam Mickiewicz

University in Poznań

488thMining and Metallurgy Academy in Cracow

435th Warsaw

University of Technology

431stWrocław University

412thWrocław

University of Technology

In the 2013 Webometrics ranking of 21,000 universities worldwide

seven Polish universities made it into the top 500

There are over

450 institutions of higher

education

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Polish universities offer high quality studies and are an inte-gral part of European education. All leading universities offer programmes taught in English, including medicine, engineer-ing, humanities, business and finance. Thanks to the ECTS (European Credit Transfer System), students can be fully mobile and continue their edu-cation in other countries.


International education

The Erasmus Programhas been running for over

20 years now and has seen almost 30,000 foreign students study in Poland

while almost 100,000 students from Poland have spent a portion of their

education in another EU country.

Every third foreigner studies a medical-related course, every fourth economics or business, over 16% social sciences,

almost 13% technical studies and 10% humanities.

Almost half of foreign students come from Ukraine and Belarus, followed

by Norway, Spain and Sweden.

In 2013 there were

29,172 foreigners from 142 countries

studying in Poland, 17% more than in 2012.

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Poland’s traditions of academic education go back to 1364 when King Casimir the Great estab-lished the Jagiellonian University, the second in Central Europe (Charles University in Prague being the first). By the end of the 17th century, the Polish-Lith-uanian Commonwealth had three flourishing universities providing academic education to both national and interna-tional students, the other two being the Vilnius University and the Lviv University.


Historical background1110

The first record of a library in Poland.

1747Załuski Library, the first Polish public library, one

of the first in Europe.

1364Foundation of the Jagiellonian

University. First in Poland, second in Central Europe.

1773Komisja Edukacji Narodowej, the first Ministry of Education

in history.

O!cial inauguration of the

650th academic yearof the Jagiellonian University in Cracow

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Innovation has always played an important role in Polish science. The first walkie-talkie was invented by a Polish engi-neer, Henryk Magnuski in 1940. The bulletproof vest, based on silk fabric, was invented by Kazimierz +egle" and Jan Szczepanik. The common paper clip, windscreen wiper and pneumatic shock absorber for cars and aircraft were the works of Polish artist, virtuoso and composer, Józef Hofmann. However, certainly amongst the many Polish inventors, Nicolas Copernicus and Maria Sk.odow-ska-Curie are the best known and most respected globally.


Famous Polish scientists, academics & innovators

Maria Skłodowska-Curie

(1867-1934)

The famous physicist, twice winner of the Nobel Prize (for physics in 1903

and for chemistry in 1911). Together with her

husband Pierre Curie she discovered the radioactive

elements polonium and radium in 1898.

Nicolas Copernicus

(1473-1543)

Outstanding astronomer, born in Toruń, Poland.

He was the first to develop the theory that the Earth and other planets move around the Sun. His book, ‘On the

Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres’, was a major event

in the history of science.

Aleksander Wolszczan

(born 1946)

Leading astronomer, professor at the

University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, he also cooperates with Toruń

University. In 1990 he was the first to prove the existence

of another planetary system in the Universe apart from

our own solar system.

Kazimierz Funk

(1884-1967)

Biochemist who is credited with being the first to

formulate the concept of vitamins. He identified the dietary factors the lack of which cause ‘deficiency disorders’, designating them as ‘vitamins’. This

name was accepted by the scientific community in 1912.

Jan Czochralski

(1885 - 1953)

Chemist who started the 20th century revolution in electronics. Thanks to him, scientists are able to grow

pure single crystals of silicon and semiconductor

wafers – the basis of all transistors and modern

microprocessors.

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As the current economic growth model is weakening, Poland has to find new ways to keep its economy competitive, and innovation is key to this. According to Frost & Sullivan’s Country Industry Forecast, Poland is becoming a very attractive location for research and development investments. Companies are choosing Poland because of the availability of a highly qualified labour force, the presence of universities, the support of authorities, and the largest market in Central Europe.


R&D sector in Poland 110,000

people work in the BPO/SSC sector.

An estimated increase to 200,000 by the end of 2014.

Over 300 shared services centres

(BPO/SSC) in Poland.

“Maybe Poland won’t

develop the second

Silicon Valley, but for sure it can create

a Polish Innovation

Valley” – says Xavier Devictor of the World Bank, emphasizing Poland’s potential in the

field of innovation.

Aviation Valley

is an aviation R&D cluster located in southeastern

Poland. The Aviation Valley Association

currently comprises over 100 aerospace companies cooperating with Polish

universities of technology and public institutions. So

far investors include Sikorski Aircraft, Agusta Westland, Siemens, Goodrich, Pratt &

Whitney, Hispano Suiza, MTU Aero Engines, Carl Zeiss.

23,000current employment in

the cluster. An estimated increase to 28,000 by

the end of 2018.

$2bnof yearly exports by the

companies grouped in the cluster.

46 initiatives for science and technology

parks, 23 already operating.

717 innovation and enterprise centres, including 318 training, consulting

and information centres.

80% of firms which currently have investments in Poland are content with their choice and willing to reinvest in the country.

For example, in 2006 Intel decided to double the number of employees in its R&D centre.

120,000 people are employed in the research and development sector in Poland.

45,000 of them hold a PhD degree.

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For several years after World War II, dialogue and relations between Polish researchers and the global scientific com-munity suffered considerably. However, after the political transition of 1989, Poles set about modernizing the econ-omy and the research sector with much enthusiasm. Recent Polish achievements in the field of innovative technologies offer reason for optimism.

GrapheneRecent discoveries by scientists from Warsaw may revolutionize the computer market. Graphene, an ultra-thin allotrope of carbon with extraordinary conducting and mechanical properties, has so far been too expensive in production to be applied commercially. This barrier was recently overcome by Polish scientists who hold the patent for a production method cheap enough to enable mass industrial application.

Vibrothermography-based system for examining

aircraft skin components

Shiba special vehicle with ground-penetrating radar for detection and

neutralization of IED threats

Methods of manufacture of composite chitosan fibers

Polysiloxanes with antimicrobial properties

Method for applying antibacterial coatings

to textiles

Method for enhancing heat transfer in the active surface of metal elements

New high-capacity lead-acid battery

A new generation of UV radiation-resistant textile barrier materials

New electromagnetic field resistant textile barrier

material and equipment for the production

of this material

New generation of composite biomaterials

synthesized using polymer matrix modified

by nanoparticles

Innovative wound dressing made from

polymeric materials and modified plant extracts

Gryf military robot

Direct method for detecting proteins in serum blood

Cyberfish – biomimetic mobile underwater robot

with undulating propulsion

Synthetic carriers of nucleic acids for gene therapy

Method and application system for lacationof cancerous and lesions by EPR

Hybrid robot for manipulation of biological cells

Non-pressurized powder application method

for abrasion-resistant tool coatings

Columbus laboratory antennas on the

international space station

Method for the production of superparamagnetic

photoluminescent nanopowders for bioimaging

Moon light – speech recognition technology

Micro-bioreactors and nano-modified substrates

for cell culturing


Latest achievements of Polish science


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Poland is a significant contributor to the world’s cultural heritage. Its art, music and literature are rooted in the Christian tradition and have developed in line with major European trends, while maintaining a unique Polish character. For centuries Polish culture has been intertwined with the country’s turbulent history and changing geography. As a result, some of Poland’s greatest masterpieces were created outside its current borders. Today Polish influences are found across a wide array of arts, from literature, through design, to film.

POLAND’S CULTURE

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Polish literature can trace its origins to the 10th and 11th centuries and includes histor-ical and religious texts written in Latin. The development of the literary tradition in Polish is linked to Miko.aj Rej, who was the first author to write exclu-sively in his native language. Often referred to as the father of Polish literature, Rej paved the way for Jan Kochanowski, who strengthened this commitment to the Polish language and is considered one of the greatest poets prior to the 19th century.

POLAND’S CULTURE

The coming of age of Polish literature

Mikołaj Rej 1505-1569

The first Polish author to write exclusively in Polish. Considered

to be one of the founders of Polish literary language and literature.

Jan Kochanowski 1530-1584

Commonly regarded as the greatest Polish poet prior to the 19th century.

Rej’s ‘Zwierciadło’ (latin. ‘Speculum’), 1567

Kochanowski’s ‘Odprawa Posłów Greckich’ (Eng: ‘The Dismissal

of the Greek Envoys’), 1578

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Polish drama dates back to the 12th century, when it featured religious scenes performed by monks. In the 17th century, Poland welcomed performances by visiting European actors and the 18th century saw the establishment of Polish pub-lic theatre, initiated by King Stanis.aw August Poniatowski. Just over a hundred years later, Poland saw the birth of its native film industry when the first cinema – Gabinet Iluzji – was opened in the city of -ód& by the Krzemi"ski brothers in 1899.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Early days of theatre and cinema

Grand Theatre and National Opera

in WarsawThe Grand Theatre in Warsaw,

built in 1833 by Antonio Corazzi, has a capacity of over 2,000

seats and is o!cially one of the largest theatres in Europe.

Here seen in a photo from 1900.

1899 Establishment of the

first cinema in Poland.

1908 Screening of ‘Antoś for

the First Time in Warsaw’, the first Polish comedy.

The famous

Warner Brothers Studios

were founded in 1903 in Los Angeles by the Wonsal brothers,

a family of Polish Jewsthat had emigrated a

few years earlier.

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Through the centuries Polish music was afforded greater freedom to develop than the other arts. It originates from the folk rhythms and melodies adapted for performances in the homes of gentry. The com-poser who took Polish music to the international salons, and has become the most famous Polish musician of all time, was Fryderyk Chopin. Considered by many the embodiment of Polishness, Chopin spent most of his adult life abroad. Other famous composers of the same era include Ignacy Paderewski and Stanis.aw Moniuszko.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Spotlight on music

Fryderyk Chopin

1810-1849Chopin grew up in Warsaw, where

he completed his musical edu-cation and composed many of

his works before leaving Poland, aged 20. Here pictured shortly

before his death in Paris in 1849.

Rare autographed musical quotation Signed by Fryderyk Chopin: Op. 53 Polonaise

other famous Polish composers:

Ignacy Paderewski

1860-1941

Stanisław Moniuszko

1819-1872

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Poland in the pre-war period was one of the most dynamic centres of avant-garde in Europe, with artists such as W.adys.aw Strzemi"ski, Katarzyna Kobro, Henryk Sta,ewski and Henryk Berlewi. After the war, and until 1956, Polish art was dominated by ideologically inspired Social Realism. One of the first artists of the new avant-garde was the internationally acclaimed Tadeusz Kantor, a painterand theatre performer. Today, big Polish names in the contemporary art market include Zbigniew Libera, Miros.aw Ba.ka, Pawe. Althamer, Wilhelm Sasnal, Katarzyna Kozyra and others.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Spotlight on art

1930 one of world’s first contemporary art museums opens in the city of Łódź.

The giant of painting

Kazimir Malevich (1879-1935), was born

to Polish parents.

The conceptual approach to time flow by

Roman Opałka

(1931-2011) has been recognised by the renowned Centre

Pompidou in Paris and New York’s MOMA and now features in their permanent collections.

The paintings of

Tamara Łempicka

(1898-1980) are recognised as important contributions to the

World’s Art Deco heritage.

The abstract sculptures of

Katarzyna Kobro

(1898-1951) are some of the greatest examples of

Polish Constructivism.

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Poland has made a significant contribution to World literature, with many works recognised internationally. However, these are just the tip of the iceberg – there is an enormous body of writing exploring the essence of Polishness, across a variety of genres, which is considered by many as ‘untranslatable’. Five Polish writers have been awarded the Nobel prize for literature: Henryk Sienkiew-icz, W.adys.aw Reymont, Isaac Bashevis Singer, Czes.aw Mi.osz and Wis.awa Szymborska.

10 Dec. 1996 Nobel Prize in Literature

Laureate

Wisława Szymborska (1923-2012) acknowledges

the applause during the award ceremony that took place in the Grand Auditorium of the

Stockholm Concert Hall in the presence of Swedish King Carl

Gustaf and Queen Silvia.

Science fiction author

Stanisław Lem (1921-2006) has had his works

translated into dozens of languages.

Joseph Conrad (1857-1924) was born in Poland as

Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski. The Oscar-awarded film ‘Apocalypse

Now’ was based on his novel.

Ryszard Kapuściński

(1932-2007) was a Polish journalist and writer whose dispatches in book form brought him global recognition

POLAND’S CULTURE

Spotlight on literature

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Beginning in the 1950s and through the 1980s, the Polish School of Posters combined the aesthetics of painting with the succinctness and simple metaphor of the poster. Posters of the Polish School of Posters significantly influenced the international development of graphic design in poster art. Their major contribution is in their use of the power of sug-gestion through clever allusions. Using strong and vivid colors from folk art, they combine printed slogans, often hand-let-tered, with popular symbols, to create a concise inventive met-aphor. Prominent contributors included Henryk Tomaszewski, Jan Lenica, Jan M.odo,eniec, and Waldemar #wierzy.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Polish School of Posters

The Poster Museum

in Warsaw houses the largest collection of art posters in the world.

The Polish School of Posters combined the aesthetics of painting with the succinctness and simple metaphor of the poster

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Polish filmmakers excel at home and are a notable influence on the international film industry. The biggest names are the widely acclaimed Roman Pola"ski and the most prominent figure of the Polish Film School, Andrzej Wajda. Other internation-ally recognised film directors include Krzysztof Kie$lowski and Agnieszka Holland. Poland is also renowned for its numerous directors of photography that have shaped a long list of Holly-wood’s high-profile productions. An important place for Polish cinema is the internationally recognised National Film, Tel-evision and Theatre School in -ód&, which produced some of Poland’s most recognised talents, including Wajda and Pola"ski.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Cinematography

Andrzej Wajda first gained international acclaim in the 1950s and since then has explored themes that are politically or historically important to Poles. Recently he commited a biographical movie about the iconic Lech Wałęsa.

Krzysztof Kieślowski (1941-1996) The legendary Polish film director is best known for shooting ‘The Decalogue’, and the ‘Three Colours Trilogy’. In 2002 Kieślowski was listed at number two on the British Film Institute’s ‘Top Ten Directors’.

Warsaw, 2001

Roman Polański back in Poland, this timeshooting ‘The Pianist’.

Famous Polish directors of photography:

Janusz KamińskiDariuszWolski

Sławomir Idziak

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Poland’s history has not been kind to its architecture. Many buildings and structures were ruined by wars or by neglect during the communist regime. Recent years have seen a great deal of revitalisation of urban areas across Poland, with Warsaw becoming the largest construction site in Central and Eastern Europe. Architects of world renown such as Sir Norman Foster, Polish-born Daniel Liebeskind, Helmut Jahn or Skidmore Owings & Merill are building high-rises in Poland. Meanwhile, local architects such as Stefan Kury.owicz, JEMS or WWAA are also building their reputation with their contributions to Poland’s urban landscape.

POLAND’S CULTURE

Eye on architecture Designed by the late

Stefan Kuryłowicz (1948-2011),

Plac Unii in central Warsaw was completed

after the architect’s death.

Warsaw alone is a larger real estate market than all the rest of the entire CEE region combined. The level of new investments is turning the city into a potential destination for architectourism.

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Przystanek Woodstock

(Eng: Woodstock Station) is an annual rock festival. Over the years it has grown to attract as many as 700,000 people and claims to be

the biggest open-air festival in Europe

Open'er Festival Begun in 2002, it brings the world's

top musical acts to Poland's seaside city of Gdynia.

For about 30 years after its establishment in 1960, the Sopot Music Festival was Poland’s main event attracting interna-tional artists. However, much has changed since then – Poland has now developed a rich tradi-tion of cultural festivals taking place throughout the year, many attracting international perform-ers and audiences. There are events dedicated to virtually all types of culture including film, design, dance and music, making Poland an important destination on the cultural map of Europe.

POLAND’S CULTURE

A culture of festivals

Since 1992

Warsaw Summer

Jazz Days has attracted world-class performers

and promotes contemporary jazz.

The International

Chopin Festival has taken place every August

since 1946 in the historic spa town of Duszniki-Zdrój. The town is

close to the Czech border, where Chopin spent some recuperative time in 1826 and gave recitals to raise money for local orphans.


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71

Poland has some of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in Europe. These include mountain ranges, thousands of lakes, a stunning coastline of sandy beaches, ancient forests and even a desert. Poland’s landscape sustains rich fauna, abundant in rare species of birds and mammals.

POLAND’S LANDSCAPE AND WILDLIFE

brown bear

grey wolf

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Poland lies on the European Plain between the Baltic Sea in the north and the Sudetes and Carpathian mountains – forming a natural border – in the south. Its neighbouring countries are Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south, Belarus and Ukraine to the east, and Russia and Lithu-ania to the north-east. Poland has a temperate climate influ-enced both by the wet oceanic wind that blows from the west and the dry continental wind that blows from the east.

91%of Poland’s area is covered by

lowlands. The rest is 300 m above sea level, with only 0.2% found above 1,000 m.


Poland’s geographyPoland has a total land area of

312,679 km2

It is ninth in terms of size amoung the 43 countries in Europe.


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71

Poland is home to many species of mammals which are relatively rare in the rest of Europe. This means that when hiking through the hills or rummaging in the forest, one might bump into one of the animals pictured opposite.


Poland’s fauna

brown bear

European bison

moose

grey wolf

Eurasian lynxPoland is the fourth most forested

country in Europe, with forests covering about

29.2% of its land area.

there are

23 national parks

in Poland.

Many animals that have nearly become extinct in other parts of Europe still survive in Poland. These include the wisent, also known as the European bison, the Eurasian lynx, and the moose.

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The Tatras are the highest mountain range in Poland, and the highest sub-range of the Carpathian Mountains. Forming a natural border between Poland and Slovakia, the Tatras span an area of 785 km2, of which 175 km2 lies in Poland.


The Tatra mountains

The largest lake in the Tatra mountains is Morskie Oko (Eye of the Sea). It spans an area of

34.9 ha

2,499 m

The highest point in Polandis the Rysy peak in the Tatras.

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The Masurian Lake District is a popular tourist destination frequented by lovers of the great outdoors. The most abundant activities include birdwatch-ing, fishing, sailing, canoeing, horse riding and cycling.


The Masurian lakes

The Masurian Lake District in northeastern Poland counts around

2,000 lakeson an area of about 52,000 km2.

The largest lake in Poland is Śniardwy, with an area of

113.8 km2

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The Baltic Sea constitutes Poland’s northern border, provid-ing access to the Atlantic Ocean. Polish tourists flock to the coastal sandy beaches every summer. Many stay in the Tri-City region of Gda"sk, Gdynia and Sopot.


The Baltic coast

The coast stretches

770 km

A distinctive part of the coast is the Hel Peninsula, a 35km-long strip of land separating the Bay

of Puck from the Baltic Sea.

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The most impressive feature of the Polish coast are the sand dunes of S.owi"ski National Park, which are gradually eating up the forest that stands in their path.


The S.owi"ski National Park

The national park spans

327 km2

40 m

is the height of the biggest dunes in the park.

During World War II, the German Afrika Korps trained there before being deployed to North Africa.

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Biebrza National Park is the largest of Poland’s 23 national parks. It is most famous for its huge variety of birds. The park attracts birdwatchers and nature lovers from all over the world and is classified as an area of international importance by global ornithological watch-dog BirdLife International.


Biebrza National Park

Biebrza National Park covers an area of

59,223 ha

Biebrza National Park is home to some

270 bird species

The area is famous for having more than 1,000 types of plants

including many rare species.

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Almost driven to extinction in the 18th century, the Euro-pean Bison has been success-fully reintroduced to Poland and become a national symbol. A popular brand of Polish beer (+ubr) is named after the Euro-pean Bison, as is the world- renowned vodka +ubrówka.


European Bison

Most bison in Poland live in Białowieża Forest. The total

population country-wide is about

1,300

The bison is the biggest surviving wild land animal in Europe. It typically

grows to from about 2.1 to 3.5 metres long and 1.6 to 2 metres tall. Bison in Białowieża

forest sometimes weigh as much as

840 kg

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Bia.owie,a National Park is the last fragment of the primaeval forest which once stretched across the European plain. It is home to the world’s largest pop-ulation of European bison and many other endangered species.


Bia.owie,a forest

The Białowieża National Park spans an area of

105 km2

Scientists estimate that only some 50% of the fauna in Białowieża forest has

been catalogued.

12,000 species

have been categorized so far.

The oldest oaks in this primaeval forest are

650 years old

Białowieża forest became a UNESCO World Heritage site

in 1979


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71

Polish cuisine has been reborn. Poles who chose Western food at the beginning of the transformation are now rediscovering the original tastes of Poland and seasoning it with creativity. Polish produce is often refreshingly natural and seasonal, full of flavour, having grown from what the land has to offer, both farmed and wild. Through the centuries it has incorporated influences from both minority populations within the country’s borders and from its neighbours. This fusion of tradition, innovation and quality makes today’s Polish cuisine delicious and inspiring.

POLAND’S FOOD

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Polish cuisine is as rich as its history and culture. As its borders have shifted over the centuries, so it has incorporated and absorbed the influences of its neighbours, including Russian, German, Austrian, Jewish, French and Lithuanian.

POLAND’S FOOD

A culinary blend of cultures

Cracow September 1364 The famous 21-day-long banquet at the house of the merchant Mikołaj Wierzynek, initiated by King Casimir III the Great of Poland to mark a meeting of European monarchs.

The feast is now a synonym of indulgence in Poland. Here seen in a painting by Bronisław Abramowicz (1876), the Wierzynek restaurant still exists today.

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A new generation of Polish chefs is re-interpreting traditional Pol-ish dishes. This 21st-century take on classic Polish cuisine even has a name: ‘MoPo’ – modern Polish! The movement is driven by old- fashioned patriotism, taking the best from its Polish roots, and adding a lighter modern touch, using fresh ingredients sourced locally and experimenting with international influences.

POLAND’S FOOD

A modern takePoland has its

first Michelin-starred

restaurantrun by the much-travelled chef

Wojciech Amaro, a figure very much at the vanguard of this new wave of Polish cuisine. No doubt there will be more Michelin stars ahead for him and his trailblazing peers.

KashiWhile a traditional Polish specialty,

groats (kasza) have been given a modern fusion twist by chef Andrzej

Zamoyski, who has created and patented a Polish version of sushi called

‘kashi’, using groats instead of rice.


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71

Thanks to regional variations and specialities, as well as the heritage of its nobility, Poland has a rich food culture. In the south, where the climate is rougher, the food is based on simple, filling dishes. In Ma.opolska you can feel the Austrian influence, and in Podlasie the culinary traditions from its eastern neighbours are tangible. Thanks to its access to the sea, northern Poland is rich in fish dishes of many different forms. Mazowsze, with Warsaw at its heart, is known for its Old Polish cuisine. This is because in the times of Kingdom of Poland (1815 – 1867) the region guarded the traditions of the country.

POLAND’S FOOD

A rich variety of regional traditions

Podlasie Sękacz is a type of cake made from a base of eggs,

flour and sugar which resembles a bee hive and, when cut, looks like a slice of a tree trunk.

Silesia Silesian potato dumpling with a hole in the middle,

usually served with meat and sauce.

CracowBagel, a bread of Jewish origin,

believed to have originated in Kraków.

MazowszeBaked duck, often cooked with apples

placed inside, and marjoram.

KujawyCzarnina, a dark soup made of duck’s blood with a sweet and sour taste from a balance

of sugar and vinegar.

Pomorzesmoked eel and herring, often served in oil

and chopped onion as a starter, best accompanied with a good Polish vodka!


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71

For those who love traditional foods, Poland offers a huge variety of products to delight the palate. The country has a total of 36 regional specialities which are protected under EU schemes as Protected Designa-tion of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) and Traditional Speciality Guar-anteed (TSG). The list includes several varieties of cheeses and sausages as well as regional pas-tries, and specially grown beans, honeys, apples and strawberries.

POLAND’S FOOD

EU protected specialities

oscypek This delicious smoked cheese made of salted sheep's milk according to a centuries-old recipe, is a famous

product of Poland's mountain regions in the south. The first

mention of this type of cheese in Poland goes all the way back to 1416.

rogal świętomarciński Roughly translated as 'Saint

Martin's Croissant', this sweet, stu&ed croissant originates from Poznań and is traditionally eaten around the feast of Saint Martin

of Tours on 11 November. The first mention of the name dates back

to a newspaper ad in 1860.

kabanos A long, thin, dry sausage made of pork that is popular throughout Poland. The sausage is typically

smoky in flavour and can be soft or dry depending on how fresh it is. It is generally not eaten as a main course, but usually alone or as an appetizer.

mead Four kinds of Polish mead (drinkable honey) have protected designations:

Półtorak, Dwójniak, Trójniak and Czwórniak. The drink has been

prepared in Poland since the very beginnings of its history. Spanish

diplomats in the 10th century wrote about the country's delicious mead.

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Food awareness is rising in Polish society. Poles love fresh, locally-grown or locally-produced food and this has resulted in an explosion of weekend local food markets promoting unique and local food products including hams, sausages, cheeses, fruit preserves, breads, pickled fruits and vegetables, smoked fish, organic oils and honeys.

POLAND’S FOOD

Weekend food markets

8%of Poles eat their main

hot meal outside of the home every day.

9%of Poles eat their main

hot meal outside of the home at least

a few times a week.The best-known Polish

local food market is the Warsaw-based

Targ Śniadaniowy

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Historically Poland was known as the land of milk and honey. In the Middle-Ages beekeeping was a serious business – in Poland stealing bees or vandalising bee hives was a capital offence. Poland is also Europe’s largest producer of apples and Polish markets are blessed with a dazzling number of varieties.

POLAND’S FOOD

A land of milk, honey …and apples

According to Poland’s national beekeeper association, Poland had 1.2m bee hives in 2013 and

some 35,000 beekeepers.

Poland’s most distinctive honey is of the honeydew variety derived

from the European Silver Fir which grows mainly in its southern and

south-eastern mountains.

Poland is

the World’s third largest producer of apples. In 2013 Poland produced

2.5 million tonnes of apples, of which 1 million tonnes

were exported.

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In 2012 Poland produced more raspberries than any other country, and has been one of the biggest growers of the fruit for decades. In fact, in recent years Poland has become the leading exporter of fruits and vegetables in the European Union. Apples account for around 75% of all fruit exports and a major agricultural export is the mushroom, with 172,000 tonnes in 2012.

POLAND’S FOOD

The largest raspberry producer in the world

127,000 tonnes

of raspberries were grown in Poland in 2012.

28,000 haof land are now dedicated to growing raspberries in Poland.

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One of Poland’s most internationally recognised dishes is ‘pierogi’. These are dumplings comprising a sweet or savoury filling encased in a thinly rolled dough which is served either boiled or fried. The most common fillings include minced meat, cabbage with mushrooms, seasonal fruit or cheese curd.

POLAND’S FOOD

Pierogi

Pierogi first appeared in Poland in the

12th century It is believed that they came

from the Far East.

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Mushroom picking is a great Polish tradition. Whole families eagerly await autumn to gather early in the morning in their local woods and pick mushrooms. Essential knowledge about which varieties are edible or poisonous is passed down from generation to generation of mushroom pickers. The mushrooms are then made into delicious sauces, used as fillings for meat or pierogi, sometimes pickled, and often dried to preserve them for the months ahead.

POLAND’S FOOD

Mushrooms

Poles’ favourite mushrooms include the Red Pine Mushroom, the Bay Bolete, the Chanterelle,

the Parasol mushroom and the Suillus luteus, commonly referred to as ‘slippery Jack’.

Jars with mushrooms marinated for winter can be found

in nearly every Polish home.

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Poland is a nation of cheese lovers. Its agrarian traditions mean that Poles were able to develop many types of cheese almost unique to the country. These include the quark cheese, Bryndza cheese made from sheep’s milk and Poland’s version of Edam cheese. Poland is the 6th largest cheese-producing country in the world. Evidence has been found that the first-ever cheeses were produced in 5500 BC in the Polish Kujawy region.

POLAND’S FOOD

Cheeses

One of the country’s most distinctive cheeses is

Oscypek a hard, smoked cheese made from sheep’s

milk. It is traditionally made by Poland’s highlanders in the Podhale region. Oscypek gained fame when it was placed on the EU’s ‘protected designation of origin’ (PDO) list.

90di&erent kinds of cheese are

produced in Poland.

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Traditional Polish cuisine includes a number of unusual dishes that, while delicious for those accustomed to them, may challenge the palettes of visitors. Perhaps the most prominent of these is Tatar – raw beef, raw egg, chopped onions, capers and a side serving of pickled cucum-ber. However, a number of dishes may arouse curiosity or alarm – slimy pickled wild mushrooms, fruit soup, fish in jelly, pickled cabbage and meat stew, tripe soup ... and blood sausage – typi-cally made from pig's blood, liver, lungs and fat mixed with buck-wheat! And afterwards why not a glass of ‘kefir’, soured milk, with many claimed health benefits?

POLAND’S FOOD

Unusual dishes

As the name indicates,

Tatar was first eaten by the tough and fearless

Tartars. It consists of raw minced meat with raw egg yolk and a little chopped onion,

capers and pickled cucumber on the side.


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71

Whether amateur or professional, as participants or watching from the sidelines, in a team or as individuals, sport in Poland is an integral part of the Polish lifestyle. This is reflected, for example, in the growing number of marathons and cycling races springing up around the country. The country’s celebration of sport reached its pinnacle when the country successfully co-hosted the UEFA EURO 2012 tournament in July 2012 with Ukraine, and the country still basks in the memories of 1974 and 1982, when Poland twice took 3rd place in the FIFA World Cup.

POLAND’S SPORTS


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71

51% of Poles went

cycling in the last year

18% of Poles went

jogging in the last year

The activity levels of Poles is rising. Two-thirds (66%) of those surveyed indicated that they had participated in a sport during the past year, of which two-fifths did so regularly. The main reason given for engaging in exercise was health (70%) or pleasure (61%). Almost half of active people exercised to improve their psychological state and relieve stress, while one-third considered sport a social occa-sion, an opportunity to spend time with friends or family.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Amateur sports

28% of Poles went

swimming in the last year

16% of Poles went

hiking in the last year


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71

Football, as in most European countries, is the most popular professional sport in Poland to watch, although the national team is currently not enjoy-ing the success fans may like. Volleyball remains popular, reflecting the regular strong performances of both the men’s and the women’s national teams. The popularity of ski-jumping was given a major boost when Adam Ma.ysz was regularly the world’s top jumper a few years ago, and remains popu-lar to this day as a new gener-ation of jumpers emerges.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Professional sports

Which sports are Poles most interested in?

35%Football

21%Ski jumping

14%Track & Field

10%Handball

30%Volleyball

14%Boxing

12%Basketball

9%Formula 1


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Internationally recognised Polish sports stars can be found in a broad range of sports – from football and tennis to cross-coun-try skiing, and even include a star of NBA basketball. Since 1926 the most respected athletes have been recognised in the Polish Sportspersonality of the Year contest. The laureates are cho-sen firstly by the jury and subse-quently by fans. Record holders include track and field athletes Irena Szewi"ska and Stanis.awa Walasiewicz, ski jumper Adam Ma.ysz and cross-country skier Justyna Kowalczyk.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Sports stars

5.Robert

Lewandowski (born 1988)

football

German Bundesliga Player of the 2012

Season and twice Polish player of the year, he is one of the top strikers in the world. As of the

beginning of 2014, he has appeared over 120 times for Borussia Dortmund and over

60 times for the Polish national team.

4.Agnieszka Radwańska

(born 1989)tennis

Reached a career-high ranking of 2nd in 2012,

the same year she was in the Wimbledon

singles finals, and is a mainstay of the

top-10 rankings.

6.Robert Kubica

(born 1984)car racing

Reached 4th position in the Formula 1 drivers rankings (2008) before an injury in a rally crash curtailed his F1 career. He has since returned to competitive rally driving, winning the 2013 WRC-2 title.

1.Justyna

Kowalczyk(born 1983)

cross-country skiing

Olympic champion and a double World Champion, the only skier to win the Tour

de Ski four times in a row and one of two female skiers to win the FIS Cross-

Country World Cup three times in a row.

She holds the all-time record for most wins

in the Tour de Ski.

2.Kamil Stoch

(born 1987)ski jump

Following in the tradition of Adam

Małysz, this Polish ski jumper won the 2013 World Championships and has 10 World Cup

wins under his belt. At the 2014 Sochi

Winter Olympics he won an individual

gold medal.

3.Paweł Fajdek

(born 1989)hammer throw

In 2013 won the gold medal in the hammer throw at the World Championships in

Moscow. His personal best in the sport is a distance of 82.27

meters. He also won gold at the 2011

European Under-23 Championships in Ostrava. One of

Poland’s best up-and-coming talents.

Most popular Polish sportspeople (2013)

according to the readers of Przegląd Sportowy daily newspaper.

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Adam Ma.ysz is a ski-jumping legend whose outstanding achievements include glueing 17 milion Poles to their TV sets to watch their hero break another sporting record. In 2000 Poland went crazy for this affable, modest and gifted young man from Wis.a who became one of the most successful ski jumpers of all time. After 10 years at the top, Malysz retired from ski jumping and is currently a successful rally driver.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Adam Ma.ysz, the Polish eagle

For his sporting achievements, Małysz was decorated by the President of Poland

with the Order of Polonia Restituta.

4-time individual Olympic

medallist

4-time individual World Championship gold medallist

(an all-time record),

4 individual World

Cup titles (all-time record shared with

Matti Nykanen)

39 individual

competition wins.92 podiums in total

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POLAND’S SPORTS

Tour de Pologne

The road bicycle race Tour de Pologne is one of the most prestigious Polish sport events, with an 85-year tradition. The first Tour de Pologne, with 71 partic-ipants, took place in September 1928. From the very begin-ning, it was regarded as one of the largest sporting events in Poland. Until 1992 the Tour de Pologne was an amateur race but, thanks to Czes.aw Lang – the Polish Olimpics silver medallist and the precursor of Polish professional cycling –it became a world-class event.

The Tour de Pologne 2013 was transmitted by Eurosport, in

20 languages and in

59 countries 2 million spectators

watched the race in person.

In 2011 the Tour de Pologne

became a part of UCI World Tour, which

brings together the world’s greatest

road races.

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The 2012 UEFA European Championship, co-hosted with Ukraine, was the biggest sporting event ever organized in Poland. Concern that the country might not be able to manage was soon swept away by excitement and then pride as it concluded successfully, generating record attendance figures. For Poland it has left a strong legacy, both tangible – with an improved infrastructure and the preparation of hundreds of ‘Orliki’ (Eng: "little eagle") football fields constructed around the country – and intangible – showing the world, and Poles themselves, that Poland can successfully manage a major event.

POLAND’S SPORTS

2012 UEFA European Championship

88%of Poles were satisfied or very satisfied with the preparations for the Euro 2012. 80%

of foreign visitors said they would visit Poland again.

92%of foreign visitors said

they would recommend Poland as a place to visit.

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Poland has fallen in love with running. It’s not just jogging in the park, but also participation in all kinds of running events from 5km fun-runs to exhaust-ing marathons. According to research by the Sponsoring Monitor 2012/2013, the number of people running over the last four years has increased three-fold. Also, the number and scale of running events, the number of participants and spectators at marathons has also increased. This trend is characteristic not only of big cities but even for small villages and is irrespec-tive of age, sex and income.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Run Poland!The oldest marathon in Poland is held in Dębno

in the north-west part of the country. It was first held on 22 July 1966 to mark the 1,000th anniversary of Polish statehood. Dębno is now

considered the Polish capital of marathons.Currently the Warsaw Marathon is the 18th biggest in Europe. In the ten years between 2002 and 2012, the number of participants in the race grew by 220% to

6,800 runners.

28 Apr. 2013Cracovia Maraton.

Runners on the streets of Cracow

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It is little known, even in Poland, that the first win-ter ascent of Mt. Everest was accomplished by a Polish climb-ing team. The golden age of Polish Himalaism recalls the outstanding achievements ofPolish Himalayan mountain-eers in the 1980s. Called the ‘Ice Warriors’ these mountain-eers were world pioneers in ascending the eight-thousand-ers during winter. The current Program ‘Polish Winter Hima-laism’ has been developed to continue the great successes of legends such as Jerzy Kuku-czka, Wanda Rutkiewicz, Leszek Cichy and Krzysztof Wielicki.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Polish Winter Himalaism

17 February 1980

The first ever winter ascent of Mt. Everest

was undertaken by Leszek Cichy and Krzysztof Wielicki.

Here, the whole team appear at their base below the peak.

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The two most successful periods for the Polish national football team were in the 1970s and in the 1980s, achieving 3rd place in both the 1974 World Cup in West Ger-many and the 1982 World Cup in Spain. Across the nation, mil-lions of fans of all ages sat glued to their black and white TV’s, willing their team on to glory.

POLAND’S SPORTS

Poland at the World Cup

1974Having surprised the world by eliminating England in the qualifying round, Poland gave notice that they were serious con-tenders with a 3-2 victory over Argentina in the first match. They then beat Haiti 7-0 and Italy 2-1 to reach the 2nd round, where they dispatched Sweden 1-0. Next was Yugoslavia, who they beat 2-1. Now only West Germany stood between them and the final, but on a water-logged pitch the Germans won 1-0. The team closed the tournament on a high with a 1-0 victory over Brazil, with Grzegorz Lato scoring his 7th goal to win the Golden Boot prize.

1982Poland started the tournament with a respectable 0-0 draw against the Italians, followed by a disappointing no-score-draw against Cameroon, but they turned on the goals in the next match against Peru with a 5-1 victory. The next match saw a Zbigniew Boniek masterclass, scoring a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Belgium. Next came a hugely significant match, in the context of time, against the Soviet Union, which resulted in a 0-0 draw, which meant Poland advanced to the semi-final of the tournament. In the semi-final, without Zbigniew Boniek, who had picked up a 2nd yellow card in the previous match, the team lost 2-0 to a strong Italian team. However they left Spain having beaten France 3-2 to once again earn 3rd place.

Current Polish Football Association (PZPN) President Zbigniew Boniek

launches a trademark attack on arch-rivals, the USSR, during their match at the ’82 World Cup. The match ended up 0-0 and Poland advanced to the

semi-final, while USSR was eliminated.

Polish fans hold aloft a Solidarność Trade Union banner at Poland’s

decisive qualifying game with the Soviet Union for the ’82 World Cup.

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XIV Paralympic Games London 2012 were very successful for the Polish para-team.

36 medals 14 gold, 13 silver, and 9 bronze 101 para-athletes represented Poland in London

Natalia Partyka(born 1989)

is a Polish table tennis player. Born without a right hand and forearm, she has achieved more in sport than most people with two hands and two arms. 3- time Paralympic medalist in Athens

(2004), Beijing (2008) and London (2012). Partyka has also participated in two regular Olympic Games, in Beijing

(2008) and London (2012).

Poland can be proud of its disa-bled athletes and their achieve-ments at international sporting events. Polish disabled teams have been participating in the Paralympic Games since 1972, when 22 Polish para-athletes won 33 medals in Heidelberg. From that moment the number of the Polish representatives and their performances at the Paralympics has grown. Poles have currently won a total of 626 medals at the following 9 Paralympic Games (237 gold, 215 silver and 174 bronze).

POLAND’S SPORTS

Parasport in Poland


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71

Poland’s diversity becomes apparent when one begins to delve into its most interesting and unusual facts. From being the largest raspberry producer to the country that first built an oil refinery, there are many interesting facts about Poland that will surprise even a Pole.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT POLAND

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On 31 July 1853, Ignacy -ukasiewicz gave a hospital in Lviv a prototype paraffin lamp he had developed to assist with emergency surgery. The staff were so impressed that they ordered more. This is thought to be the first sale of an oil-based product. Realising the potential of this new fuel, -ukasiewicz went on to sink a number of extraction wells in Poland, thus starting the oil industry.


The modern oil industry began in Poland

1859Ignacy Łukasiewicz built

the first industrial oil refinery in Ulaszowice, south-eastern Poland.

It is said that John D Rockefeller, when they met in Vienna, proposed to Łukasiewicz

that he accompany him back to the US and go into partnership setting up oil refineries. Łukasiewicz turned him down. Rockefeller went on to become

the richest person in the world.

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The highest peak in Australia is Mount Kosciuszko, named in honour of Polish patriot and statesman Tadeusz Ko$ciuszko in 1840 by Polish explorer Paul Strzelecki. Ko$ciuszko was a Pol-ish hero who led the uprising against Russia and Prussia which bears his name, in 1794. Earlier he took part in the American War of Independence, rising to Brigadier General, and became friends with Thomas Jefferson. Paul Strzelecki was a much-trav-elled geologist who visited, among other places, France, the Americas, Africa, China, Egypt, New Zealand and Australia. He died in London in 1873.


The highest peak in Australia is named after a Pole

With 5,300 men, Kościuszko defeated 25,000 Russians at the battle of Dubienka on 18 July 1792

Mount Kościuszko

2,228 m

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During the summer, 25% of the world’s storks nest in Poland. In the winter they fly south to Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. The association of white storks with newborn babies probably comes the fact that storks often nest on chimneys. It was said that a young couple would soon have children if storks built a nest on their house.


Poland has the most nesting storks in the world

The stork capital of Poland is located in a hamlet called Żywkowo. Every

year the stork population of the village outnumbers the human population by a factor of four, when 100 storks join

the 25 human residents. By the end of the season the storks number about 200.

Poland is also home to very rare

black storks

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Poland is home to a number of esteemed studs, particularly famous for their Arabian purebreds. The largest and most prestigious stud is state-owned Janów Podlaski, close to the border with Belarus, which has a history dating back to 1817. The annual Pride of Poland auction has been held at Janów Podlaski since 1970, with buyers travelling from as far afield as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, as well as Great Britain and the USA, to purchase horses.

€100,000is the average price of a mare at the auction.

A grey mare named El Saghira was sold for

€500,000at the 44th Pride of Poland

auction in 2013.


Poland is home to prestigious studs of Arab horses

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The inventor of Esperanto, the world’s most successful constructed language, was Polish-Jewish doctor Ludwig Lazarus Zamenhof. Zamenhof was born in Bia.ystok in 1859, a city in which four main languages were spoken: Polish, Russian, German and Yiddish. As a child he observed that this was a root cause of suspicion and misunderstanding between citizens and resolved to create an international language to ease tensions. The first book of Esperanto grammar was published in Warsaw in 1887.


Esperanto was created by a Pole

On 22 February 2012, Google Translate added Esperanto as its 64th language.

Lernu, the best known online Esperanto platform reported over

150,000 registered users in July 2013.

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A yew tree in Henryków Luba"ski is Poland’s oldest, estimated to be 1,250 years old. This venerable tree stands in the garden of a former Cistercian monastery. However, the most famous tree in Poland is a large oak named Bartek by locals, although it is much younger, at around 650 years old. Both are recognized as national heritage sites.


Poland’s oldest tree

The ancient yew bears the scars of Cossack sabres from 1813.

polska 2014: transformation complete

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