Civil Society and The State - The Double-Edged Sword

Abstract: There has been plenty of debate on the relation between civil society and democracy. This case study of Poland thus adds to this debate. The research was done through analysing reports from civil society organisations and conducting two interviews with civil society organisations. The conclusion is that although civil society organisations in Poland can have a positive impact on democracy, there are big divisions in society. There is also a presence of a strong non-democratic civil society. In contemporary Poland, the non-democratic civil society and the state cooperates, strengthening both spheres. It is thus argued that the relationship between state and civil society is mutually reinforcing when their views align. However, the state will always the stronger party, and in case of a democratic decline the laws which the non-democratic civil society supported can be turned against them.