The extraordinary development of Poland according to “The Economist”. What next with the role of the country
As the Economist emphasizes, Poland currently has an army greater than Great Britain, France or Germany, and its defense expenses reach over 4 percent. GDP. This result significantly exceeding NATO standards.
The country plans to increase this indicator to 5 percent. Next year, which makes Poland one of the most important players in the European security system.
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At the same time, the Polish economy records impressive results. Income per capita has increased three times since 1995, and since the joining of the European Union in 2004, Poland has almost not known recession. The average annual economic growth in the last two decades has been almost 4 percent. The standard of living, measured by purchasing power, is soon to exceed the level of Japan.
Warsaw, the capital of the country, has become a symbol of this development. Varso Tower, the highest building in Europe outside Russia, is the best example. In the Polish countryside, in turn, infrastructure, often co -financed by the EU, changed the landscape, and the country became an attractive place for returning emigrants and investors.
Presidential elections: Poland at a political crossroads
Despite these successes, Poland faces key choices that can define its future. “The Economist” draws attention to two opposing political directions. On the one hand, the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) promotes a nationalist vision based on conflict with the European Union and neighbors. On the other hand, the opposition calls for closer cooperation with Europe, arguing that in the face of global challenges Poland and the EU need each other – both in terms of security and the economy.
The British weekly notes that the right now has an advantage, which raises concerns about the further direction of the country's policy. Will Poland decide to insulate or rather strengthen its place in the European community, being at the top of its abilities?
Europe needs Poland and Poland – Europe
Poland, as the fourth “Musketeer” in the European security system, plays a key role in the region. Together with Great Britain, France and Germany, this country is a pillar of support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
Read also: The EC reduced the forecast of the growth of the Polish economy. It is much below the government's estimates
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, together with the leaders of these countries, recently went to Kiev to emphasize the solidarity of Europe with Ukraine. In this context, Poland stands out from the other countries of the Visegrad Group – while Hungary and Slovakia approached Russia, Poland consistently strengthens its relations with the West.
Poland: An example of the success of European integration
Over the past three decades, Poland has proven how much can be achieved thanks to integration with the European Union and responsible economic policy. The country became one of the main beneficiaries of EU funds, which translated into infrastructure development, economic growth and improving the quality of life of citizens.
Read also: The government has adopted many years of assumptions of the development of the Polish economy
However, as “The Economist” notes, the future of Poland depends on the decisions that will be made in the coming years. Will the country use its current position to strengthen as a leader in Europe or does it risk losing influence in the benefit of internal divisions and political disputes? The answer to this question may decide not only about the future of Poland, but also the entire region – sums up the weekly.
The Economist material caused a reaction on the Polish political scene. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, which should not be surprising, reacted with joy to the article.
“That's how the world see us today!” – the Polish Prime Minister wrote on the social platform.
