NSZZ "Solidarność" - niektóre dylematy z lat 1980-1981

Abstract

During 1980-1981, apart from the obvious contradictions between the goals of ‘Solidarity’ and the objectives of the government, there also existed contradictions among the assumptions held with regard to the role and the function of the newly established union, the proposed methods of their realisation, and the social convictions and expectations. According to the statements made in the ‘Solidarity’ press, the Union defined itself mainly as a mass social movement, however, it also had to fulfil the role which in democratic systems is played by the political opposition (so, it could not be a classical trade union). It represented majority of the society, which immediately put it in the conflict situation with the authorities, whereas its basic functions included representation of the social interests (including the breaking of the existing government monopoly, influence on the elections and contents of decisions), retrieving the subject role of the society and its integration. All of it meant strong institutionalisation. centralisation (so processes by their very nature in disagreement with social movements), undertaking of activities not in conformity with the general opinions that ‘Solidarity’ should not be transformed into a political party, the necessity to represent very diverse and conflicting interests, as well as adopting solutions, for which the society was not quite ready or convinced, and in addition quickly, because the Union was losing social trust. All of these caused a very difficult situation into which ‘Solidarity’ was gradually sinking.