Specifics of Local Self-Government Functioning in Poland in the Context of European standards and the principle of public authority

Abstract

This chapter aims to analyze the specific features of local self government functioning in the Republic of Poland in the context of European standards and the principle of unified public authority. The study outlines theoretical approaches to local self-government as a democratic institution, reveals the essence of the subsidiarity principle as a cornerstone of the European legal framework, and examines its implementation within the Polish self-government model. It traces the evolution of administrative-territorial reform in Poland after 1990 and outlines the modern three-tier structure of local government bodies: gmina – powiat – voivodeship. A comparative analysis of the interaction between local authorities and the state administration within the unified public authority system is presented, including the role of voivodes as government representatives at the regional level. Special attention is paid to mechanisms of direct citizen participation in public governance, such as participatory budgeting, public hearings, and local initiatives, with a focus on their legal status, organizational mechanisms, and effectiveness. Key challenges facing Polish local governance are discussed, including financial autonomy, staffing, and political influence. Prospects related to digitalization and the strengthening of local autonomy are also summarized. The Polish case is considered a valuable transformational model for post-socialist countries aiming to harmonize their governance systems with European standards of good governance