Parliament of Poland
History
The Second Polish Republic, established in 1918, marked the return of Poland's sovereignty after 123 years of partitions by Austria-Hungary, the German Empire, and Russia. The Parliament of the Second Polish Republic consisted of the President of the Republic and two houses: the Sejm and the Senate. The Sejm was the lower house, with 460 deputies, while the Senate was the upper house, consisting of 100 senators. The Parliament was responsible for legislation, control over the executive branch, and matters of national importance.
Structure and Composition
The Parliament of Poland, known in Polish as the "Sejm", is a bicameral institution consisting of two houses: the Sejm and the Senate. The Sejm is composed of 460 deputies, while the Senate has 100 senators. Deputies and senators are elected for a four-year term. The Sejm is the dominant house, as it has the power to pass laws that the Senate can only amend but not veto.
Legislative Process
The legislative process in the Parliament of Poland involves several stages. A bill can be submitted by a group of deputies, the Senate, the President, or a group of citizens. The bill is first read in the Sejm, where it is debated and voted on. If it is approved, it is sent to the Senate, which can propose amendments. The bill is then returned to the Sejm, which can accept or reject the Senate's amendments. If the bill is approved by both houses, it is sent to the President for signature.
Political Parties and Elections
The Parliament of Poland is a multi-party system. The major political parties in Poland include the Law and Justice Party, the Civic Platform, and the Polish People's Party. Elections to the Sejm are conducted through a system of proportional representation, while the Senate is elected through a first-past-the-post system.
Powers and Functions
The Parliament of Poland has several key functions, including legislative, oversight, and representation. The Parliament is responsible for making laws, controlling government activities, and representing the interests of the Polish people. It also has the power to declare war, approve the state budget, and ratify international treaties.
Relationship with the Executive
The Parliament of Poland has a complex relationship with the executive branch. The Parliament has the power to control the government's activities through questions, interpellations, and votes of no confidence. However, the government also has the power to dissolve the Parliament under certain circumstances.
Role in the European Union
As a member of the European Union, the Parliament of Poland plays a crucial role in the EU's legislative process. The Parliament is responsible for implementing EU laws and regulations in Poland. It also represents Poland in the EU's decision-making bodies.