Jarosław Kaczyński, in a recent address from the village of Śniadowo, has announced intentions to lead a “Great March” in Warsaw on May 18th. This march, Kaczyński stated, aims to channel the spirit of the January 11th rally, known as the “Protest of Free Poles,” which resonated throughout the capital earlier this year. As the head of the Law and Justice Party (PiS), Kaczyński emphasized that the primary objective of this forthcoming demonstration is to rally the parliamentary majority towards adopting a Sejm resolution concerning the Green Deal and an embargo on Ukrainian grain.
The Plight of Rural Poland and Historical Perspectives
Speaking passionately about the challenges confronting rural Poland, Kaczyński delved into historical contexts during his discourse. “Today, the paramount issue on our agenda is the state of the Polish countryside,” he articulated. “This persistent problem demands our attention and action. While I cannot encapsulate our entire 1050-year history, I will focus on recent times and the ongoing realities. Rural Poland has long suffered exploitation. The economic strategies of the People’s Republic of Poland (PRL) viewed the countryside merely as a means to extract resources for urban development. Though some adjustments were made during the Gierek era, rural areas were neglected, lacking even basic benefits and healthcare. Regrettably, this paradigm persisted post-1989.”
Kaczyński’s Call for Rural Reform: Addressing Generational Struggles and Activating Grassroots Action
Kaczyński’s discourse shed light on the enduring struggles faced by rural communities, spanning generations. He underscored the historical exploitation of rural resources and underscored the pressing need for systemic change. Reference to the PRL era provided a poignant backdrop, highlighting the entrenched challenges faced by rural Poland.
The decision to organize a “Great March” underscores the potency of grassroots activism in shaping political narratives. Kaczyński’s endeavour seeks to mobilize citizens and drive policy reforms to address the grievances of rural communities.
The proposed resolution addressing the Green Deal and Ukrainian grain embargo reflects broader concerns about environmental sustainability and geopolitical dynamics impacting Poland’s agricultural sector. Kaczyński’s initiative not only aligns with his party’s agenda but also addresses urgent national issues.