Aktywizowanie społeczności lokalnej – problemy z wykorzystaniem zasad demokracji bezpośredniej

The following article is an attempt to point out the ways of the activation of local com-munities. Despite numerous legal measures concerning different forms of direct democracy, the citizens’ participation in local life is very low. The lack of engagement and interest in the problems of surrounding, as well as partici-pation in self-government elections, is determined by numerous factors. What is more, a reluctance of central authorities to activate the communities is noticeable.