The Governing Function of Political Parties and Its Realization in Poland

Abstract

The basic and the most important functions of political parties, not only in Poland but also in all democratic countries, include their active participation in elections and then governing the country by exercising the state power. In that context it seems clear that the governing function shall be perceived as a natural consequence of successfully realized electoral function and in practice it could not be performed at all if parties were not provided with legal opportunities to influence the electoral process. At the same time, this is undoubtedly one of the most important functions fulfilled by political parties in a democratic country.

As the term “governance” is differently understood in the legal doctrine there are also differences concerning the notion of “governing function” of political parties. However, for the purpose of this paper, it can be assumed that the governing function of political parties involves proposing, shaping, making and enforcing decisions concerning the state. Therefore, its realization is expressed through different decision-making processes (primarily legislative processes) as well as the management of the state apparatus to ensure the implementation of their outcomes.