Democratic elections in Poland, 1991-2007 /

In this thorough work, Millard (Univ. of Essex, UK) provides an up-to-date political history of democratic elections in contemporary Poland. The focus is on parliamentary elections, although presidential elections are also examined. Poland has had a very fluid party system, with parties coming and going not just during elections but also between them. This book outlines all such developments, as well the nature of each campaign, the contrasting party programs, and the explanation of the outcome of each election. The book also analyzes the impact of the electoral system. Millard's central themes are the general problems of lack of institutionalization, poor elite decisions, and the related alienation of voters and low voter turnout. Detailed tables are given throughout, and the references (both in English and Polish) are extremely comprehensive. The book is written not just for the study of this key European country, but for comparative analysis of party political development. Indeed, Millard makes explicit contrasts with other postcommunist countries, especially Hungary and the Czech Republic. The book is certainly a definitive case study, but it is also useful for general studies of elections, party politics, and party systems. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduate, graduate, and research collections. A. Siaroff University of Lethbridge