Situation of national minorities in Poland and Lithuania - a comparative study

In this article the authors seek to compare the current situation of national minorities in Poland and Lithuania, mainly in the demographic, political, legal and institutional aspects. Use is made of the results of research conducted by the authors in national–minority circles in Poland and Lithuania, statistical data published in the two countries and a review of the legal acts related to the issue of nationality. In terms of historical conditions, the legal and political situation, demographic potential and nationality structure the two countries have many common features, as well as others that are quite distinct, and more than capable of affecting the role, importance and perceptions of national minorities. As a result of the transformation of political and geopolitical circumstances characterizing recent decades, both Poland and Lithuania are democracies involved in the integration process on the European continent, and cooperating within the framework of the EU and NATO. [...