Administrative Litigation in Poland

During the last three decades Poland has re-established external control of public administration and placed it in the hands of the administrative courts. From 1980 onwards, one can discern a notable expansion in the scope of the jurisdiction of the administrative courts. ¹ Although administrative litigation in Poland remains far from ideal, the crucial and indispensable role of the administrative courts in Poland is undeniable. Many factors have collectively brought about the overall success of administrative courts in Poland. Administrative courts are capable of providing the highest degree of impartiality in relation to public authorities, affording individuals effective judicial protection against legal infringements of public administration. Administrative courts greatly differ from the common courts. The role of the former is to adjudicate on the legality of activities undertaken by the public administration. Administrative courts do not replace public administration; instead, they ensure that it follows the principle of legality.