MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS AND SHORTCOMINGS OF LEGAL REGULATION OF SOCIAL PROTECTION IN

Abstract

This article examines the legal regulation of social protection for vulnerable groups in the Polish Republic from 1918 to 1939. The author provides a general overview of the historical context of the Polish social protection system following the restoration of statehood, particularly highlighting the disparities in legal regulation across regions that were once part of different empires and the need to address unfavorable foreign policy circumstances. The relationship between these factors and the peculiarities of legislative development is explored.

The author identifies the most significant legislative acts in force in Poland during this historical period and reveals the main features of the social protection system for specific categories of citizens. Key characteristics of social insurance regulations concerning disability, unemployment, and assistance for victims of hostilities and their families are discussed. The study highlights a gradual expansion of insurance mechanisms for social protection in old age and the Polish authorities' efforts to streamline government institutions aimed at providing financial support to socially vulnerable groups.

The research identifies the primary advantages and disadvantages in the development of Polish legislation regarding social security and the protection of social rights. The findings indicate a relatively high level of development in social security legislation for certain population groups within the Polish Republic. Among the notable achievements was the overcoming of fragmented social protection mechanisms, resulting in a unified system. Additionally, there was a clear state policy recognizing the right to social security for priority social groups, such as war veterans and workers temporarily unable to work due to illness, alongside the expansion of social guarantees for the elderly and unemployed.

However, Polish social legislation had imperfections, evidenced by certain shortcomings in both its development and implementation. Specifically, the right to social security was often inaccessible to rural residents, and some provisions were discriminatory towards workers. Furthermore, the lack of coordination and efficiency among government institutions frequently resulted in charitable or religious organizations stepping in to fulfill social functions.