The article analyses contents of speeches of parliament members in Sejm of the Republic of Poland during the parliamentary discussion of February 5th, 2015 over the information for Sejm and Senat of the Republic of Poland on Poland’s participation in the works of the EU between July and December 2014. The purpose of the analysis of the parliamentary discourse was to indicate differences and similarities in opinions of the representatives of major political powers in Poland within the scope of assessment of the foreign policy of the European Union. The analysis shows mainly lack of coherence in the foreign policy of the EU and existence of clear, firm division at the level of assessment of role/ meaning of Poland in the given area of activity.

Economy, politics and identity: Galicia and the Habsburg Monarchy in the 19th century in the light of a historiographical debate on the empire, nation and region

This article takes a fresh look on the status of Galicia within the Habsburg Monarchy between the late 18th and the early 20th century, presenting the obstacles and opportunities of economic growth faced by imperial policy-makers. At the same time, an analysis is presented of the impact of the imperial experience on the process of forging national identities. The emphasis has been placed on how the increasing national fragmentation in a multi-cultural region affected economic prosperity.

Hospodářství, politika a identita: Halič a Habsburská monarchie v dlouhém 19. století na pozadí historiografické debaty o impériu, národě a regionu

The article focuses on the role and importance of the activity of local governments in the economic development process of the Council of Europe member states, taking into account the specific role of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe. In the context of contemporary economic and social challenges, the effectiveness of actions taken by local governments is analysed, taking into account the specific impact of the Congress on shaping regional policy. The article is based on case studies and an analysis of the practices of local governments from selected member states of the Council of Europe, with particular emphasis on the role of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe. In the context of global trends, the article points to the importance of the Congress as a platform to exchange experiences, coordinate activities and represent the interests of local governments at the European level. It also presents tools and instruments that the Congress can use to support and stimulate the activity of local governments, such as initiating inter-sectoral dialogue, promoting international cooperation and promoting standards of good practice in local management. In addition, it analyses the challenges faced by the Congress in the context of increasing the effectiveness of its activities.