Between Private Property, Authoritarian State and Democracy: Clearing Trees in Cities and Destroying the Białowieża Forest in Poland

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article describes the widespread tree felling that began in Polish cities in 2017. The authors show the relationship between this phenomenon and the ideology that gives priority to private property over public good. This ideology was the basis for the new Nature Conservation Act that came into force in Poland in 2017. The new regulations not only made cutting down trees in cities and private properties easier, but also allowed real estate developers to fell trees in landscape parks. The authors also describe the conflict over logging in the Białowieża Forest between the government in Poland and international public opinion (scientists, ecologists, the Court of Justice of the European Union). They defend the thesis that this conflict illustrates a simple relationship: right-wing populists gain support using the slogan of defending “ordinary people,” but once they are in power, they implement not only political authoritarianism but also neoliberal dogmas.