Szkoła Demokracji – przestrzeń spotkania nauki, refleksji i współczesnych wyzwań świata polityki
In the first quarter of 2026, the Institute of Administration and Political Science organised an exceptional series of masterclasses as part of the School of Democracy programme – an initiative that consistently builds a space for in-depth reflection on the modern state, society, and the directions of democratic development.
It was a cycle that not only responded to the world's current challenges but, above all, posed questions – bold, uncomfortable, and necessary. This is precisely where its value lies.
Local government facing change – between stability and the pressure of reality
30 January 2026.
Dr Ryszard Kessler
„Local government in an era of challenges”
The opening lecture of the series was an extremely current analysis of the functioning of local government in the face of dynamic social, economic, and institutional changes.
Dr Ryszard Kessler incisively highlighted the tension between rising citizen expectations and the real capabilities of public administration. He pointed to the necessity of redefining the role of local government – not just as an implementer of public policies, but as an active co-creator of local communities.
It was a presentation that prompted thought and, at the same time, organised knowledge about one of the most important pillars of the state.
Revitalisation as conscious management – more than just space renewal
10 February 2026.
„Revitalisation as a conscious management process in public administration”
The second meeting within the series transported participants into the realm of local development management, showcasing regeneration as a complex and multi-dimensional strategic process.
During the lecture, it was emphasised that effective revitalisation is not limited to infrastructural changes, but involves a profound social, institutional, and functional transformation of space. Particular attention was paid to the role of social participation and the responsibility of public administration for the long-term effects of the undertaken actions.
This presentation showed that good management isn't just about decisions – it's a process that requires awareness, courage, and consistency.
Geopolitics without illusions – a clash of world models
20 March 2026.
Professor Zbigniew Girzyński
„Liberal Imperialism and Authoritarian Imperialism. The USA and Russia in a Geopolitical Perspective”
The culmination of the cycle was a lecture by Professor Zbigniew Girzyński, who introduced the participants to the complex world of contemporary geopolitics in an extremely evocative way.
An analysis of two competing models – the liberal and the authoritarian – has allowed for a broader, systemic perspective on current international tensions. The presentation highlighted that contemporary conflicts are not merely disputes between states, but rather a clash of worldviews, values, and methods of organising power.
It was a lecture that left attendees not only with knowledge, but most importantly with food for thought – about the direction contemporary politics is heading.
School of Democracy – more than a lecture series
The series of masterclasses within the School of Democracy has confirmed that the Institute of Administration and Political Science is a place for real academic debate – one that does not shy away from difficult topics and does not stop at the level of declarations.
This is a space where theory meets practice, and knowledge meets experience. A space where students don't just listen – they learn to understand.
The School of Democracy remains one of the Institute's most important didactic formats, building its identity as a centre for reflection on the state, society, and the future of democracy.
We invite you to our next meetings!