CHILDREN'S INDUSTRY AND CRAFT WORK IN THE SECONDARY POLISH REPUBLIC – CONDITIONS AND CONSEQUENCES

In: Polityka społeczna: miesie̜cznik poświe̜cony pracy i sprawom socjalnym, Band 569, Heft 8, S. 29-36

Abstract

After the end of World War I and Poland regaining independence after 123 years of captivity, its situation was difficult in every respect. Entangled in various political problems, Second Polish Republic could not direct the right forces and resources to those areas of social life that were the most neglected and required quick and radical action. Lack of work after the war and increasing unemployment every year resulted in the deepening poverty of those less resourceful, inheriting poverty from generation to generation. Often the only salvation for the family was sending the children to work immediately after graduating from primary school or even earlier. The Polish government, aware of this situation, did not have the possibility to address the problem properly.
The aim of the article is to show how difficult the situation of children and families can be when the national support system is ineffective. By analogy, it is also intended to emphasize the importance of activities undertaken by the present government for the benefit of children and families. Owing to the interest and various forms of support, children, regardless of their financial status, are provided with opportunities for development and a dignified life.