A new period for the Polish civic movement began when Poland overthrew communism in 1989. Democratic change led to a boom in civic initiatives.

The institutional and legal framework for voluntary sector was initially set out in early ‘90s and has developed since then. The latest law (the Act on public benefit organisations and volunteering) allows organisations – once they have passed a special registration procedure – to receive 1% of an individual’s income tax.

In May 2004 Poland became a member of the European Union. As a result, the Polish voluntary sector has access to new sources of funding. New challenges for non-profits appeared at the same time, among them the management of the European Structural Funds and the social economy.

consists of over 50,000 registered organisations
includes organisations of public benefit
most of active organisations operate in the fields of sport, social care, health protection, culture, education and community development
a typical organisation has an income up to 3,500 euro a year
8 million Poles are members of organisations, 1/3 of the organisations employ staff
18% of Poles are involved in voluntary activities
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