Poland: Treatment of political prisoners in view of Solidarity's success in the recent Polish elections
| Publisher | Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada |
| Author | Research Directorate, Immigration and Refugee Board, Canada |
| Publication Date | 1 July 1989 |
| Citation / Document Symbol | POL1344 |
| Cite as | Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, Poland: Treatment of political prisoners in view of Solidarity's success in the recent Polish elections, 1 July 1989, POL1344, available at: http://www.refworld.org/docid/3ae6ab8740.html [accessed 18 May 2013] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
An article in the Globe and Mail, dated 30 May 1989, states that the Polish parliament, the Sejm, issued a comprehensive pardon regarding all "political crimes" committed since 1980. There is no information currently available to the IRBDC regarding the effect of this amnesty. The Department of External Affairs states that the situation is evolving so rapidly that precise information is not currently available. There is a definite trend towards liberalization and every indication that more and more organizations are ceasing to be banned. External also notes that there have been occasions in the last five months in which no organizations were banned in Poland.
As per your telephone conversation with the research officer, please find attached two article which outline the current political situation with regards to Solidarity in Poland. In addition, a copy of a recent telex from the Department of External Affairs regarding changes to Polish passport and exit permit laws is attached.
