It has since introduced radical changes to transform itself into a serious candidate for entry into Western alliances. Membership of Nato was achieved in 1999, but the Poles may have to wait some time to join the European Union. The EU acknowledges these efforts, which include expanding the private sector to provide more than two-thirds of economic activity. But Brussels still has a number of concerns.
Polish agriculture is seen as weak and uncompetitive, with too many inefficient small farms.
Poland is trying to tackle these problems and has set up a police liaison team with Russia. The Catholic church, which is a strong force in Polish life, is worried that modern lifestyles are corrupting those values. The church has recently become involved in heated debates over issues such as worship in schools and abortion. The Freedom Union blamed the slow pace of economic and social reform. Buzek's government is unpopular because the restructuring of industry has led to a large increase in unemployment.