Poland is a parliamentary republic, which has however certain features of the presidential regimes. The new constitution, which followed the small provisional constitution established in 1990 to restore the civic rights and a parliamentary democracy, was approved by the referendum on 25th May 1997. This text is the fruit of a compromise between the numerous political components of the country, the will to adhere to the international standards and the maintenance of a national specificity. With 221 items, it received many criticisms, in particular from the right-wing parties. However, the economic articles of this constitution are very favorable to business.

Elected for five years in general elections, the President holds the executive power. He appoints the Prime Minister, with the approbation of the Diet, which is the Parliament. He has a right of veto over the laws voted by the Parliament, but it can be rejected by the Parliament in case of a majority of the two-third parties. The President is the head of the State and the commander of the armed forces.

The National Assembly is made up of the Diet (Sejm) - 460 deputies elected in a proportional vote for four years and of a Senate, composed of 100 members elected also for four years. The legislative power belongs primarily to the Diet. The Senate can only revise and propose amendments to the laws voted by the Diet. The Senate has a right of veto on the decisions of the Diet, but this one can be raised only in decision made by the majority of two thirds.

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amnesty.org - Amnesty International - data for Poland

freedomhouse.org... - Freedom House, Poland

en.rsf.org... - Reporters without borders, Poland