REMARKS ON THE SYSTEM OF THIRD REPUBLIC OF POLAND IN VIEW OF COMPARATIVE POLITICAL STUDY OF GOVERNMENT TYPES AND ELECTORAL SYSTEMS

This paper considers the performance of the Polish constitutional system. According to a popular view, the system of government in Poland is in a deep crisis. Opinions differ as to its causes. Some see them in the constitution; others in the weakness of the Polish political culture. This analysis focuses on three topics: 1) chances for an effective government; 2) efficiency of internal controls; 3) accountability of politicians and political parties. In each of these domains weaknesses are manifested. According to the author’s view, the reason is the low priority given to constitutional issues at the start of the transition, and their subjection to particular interests of main political actors later on. The weakness of formal controls, and low electoral accountability have created conditions in which formal institutions offer a faęade behind which the informal processes often bordering on crime occur. In the author’s opinion, the Polish system o f government requires a deep reform embracing the function of the parliament, public administration and the judiciary. Such a reform stands no chance for success unless the proportional representation is replaced with the simple plurality electoral system