This book examines the experiences of workers in Eastern Europe after the fall of communism. It analyzes the changes in the labor market, the rise of new forms of employment, and the impact of globalization on workers' lives. The book explores the challenges faced by workers in adapting to the new economic realities. It also examines the role of trade unions and other organizations in defending workers' rights. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the changing world of work in Eastern Europe. It offers valuable insights into the social and economic transformations that have taken place in the region since the collapse of communism.
This book explores the Solidarity movement in Poland and its impact on the country's political landscape. It examines the movement's origins, its key figures, and its ultimate goals. The book delves into the complexities of the Solidarity movement, analyzing its successes and failures. It also explores the movement's legacy and its lasting impact on Polish politics and society. The book provides a detailed and nuanced account of one of the most important social and political movements of the 20th century. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics of social movements and their potential to transform societies.
This book analyzes the decline of the Solidarity movement in Poland and the reasons for its ultimate failure. It examines the internal divisions within the movement, the impact of economic reforms, and the role of political elites. The book explores the challenges faced by Solidarity in adapting to the new political landscape. It also examines the legacy of Solidarity and its lasting impact on Polish politics and society. The book provides a critical assessment of the Solidarity movement and its role in the transformation of Poland. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics of social movements and their potential for both success and failure.
David Ost, professor of politics and Hobart and William Smith, joins Suzi to unpack Poland’s June 1 presidential election. The race was tight, but in the end, Karol Nawrocki, the far-right, hardline nationalist with MAGA-style politics and Trump’s backing, narrowly defeated Warsaw's liberal mayor Rafał Trzaskowski.
After voters rejected Trumpist candidates in recent elections in Canada, Australia and Romania, Polish voters went the other way, swinging back to the hard right just two years after electing liberal leader Donald Tusk. What does this election reveal about the continuing attraction of the authoritarian and nationalist right to working class voters?
Ost argues that Tusk in power promised a program of radical changes, but delivered too little, dampening enthusiasm and turnout, echoing the troubles of Biden and Harris in the US. There was also the liberal-left campaign which focused on Nawrocki’s negative personal qualities, including criticism of his tough working class background, rather than his reactionary, xenophobic, chauvinist agenda — missteps that fed class resentment and fueled the far right.
Populism has shown to have staying power, and center-left governance has failed to offer a durable counter. Is Poland a warning to liberal democrats everywhere? What are the implications for Ukraine, Europe and the globe?
Jacobin Radio with Suzi Weissman features conversations with leading thinkers and activists, with a focus on labor, the economy, and protest movements.
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