Independent and Self-Governing “Solidarity” Trade Union New challenges for Poland on eve of integration with EU

Short history of “Solidarity” in Poland Established in 1980 Banned after imposition of martial law in 1981 Registered again in 1989

Structure of the Union 16 regional units 38 national sections Almost 1 million members

Main objectives and tasks Combat unemployment Protect old age and disability pensioners Struggle for fair working conditions Protect workers’ rights and collective bargaining

“Solidarity” Trade Union of the Postal Employees Established in 1992 Has about 14 thousand members Biggest trade union operating at the Polish Post Enterprise Collective Bargaining set up in additional protocols signed Works on changes to the collective bargaining