Województwo katowickie i śląskie w trzech dekadach transformacji (1989-2019)

Abstract

Three decades in a given region’s functioning does not seem much when we take into account its centuries-long history. Yet, it is long enough when we attempt to balance its cost and benefits in the lives of inhabitants. During the period in question the region had a lot of success connected with upgrading its economy, culture, ecology, but it also suffered some defeats in these fields. Among the most important achievements are the development of communication infrastructure with Katowice-Pyrzowice Airport and also the infostructure (such as information superhighway, fibre-optic network). The structure of inhabitants has also undergone a noticeable change. The proportion of highly educated people and those of high professional capital is ever greater. Indigenous Upper Silesians are well visible as they started to organise themselves socially and culturally. The city of Katowice, at the same time, became an important cultural centre, not only of the region, but also of Poland. However, the region is struggling with industry sectors which fall short in terms of profitability. The process of re-establishing civil society in the region is also a slow one. What is more, the environmental protection still remains a big problem.