Methodology

Abstract

Poland offers an interesting case for analysis because it is one of the post-communism countries that have enjoyed visible progress in its transition to democracy. As a country affected by shifts of borders and mass resettlements during and after World War II, it has been inhabited by ethnic, national and religious minorities. Since the fall of communism, minority groups have profited from significant institutional changes that have taken place in Poland. For instance, several international human rights documents and bilateral treaties have been ratified, which include not only legal protection but also the right to preserve their culture, customs and language (see Łodziński 2005). These forms of institutional protection respectively influence the everyday conditions of minority members, such as finding a job, being accepted at school, practicing religion, study and using native languages in public places as well as organizing and attending cultural festivals. In fact, the new opportunity structures allowed for a drastic revival of minority cultures and organizations.