Encyklopedia Administracji Publicznej MW Pivot Skin

UNION OF POLISH CITIES (UPCi) – a voluntary nationwide association of cities-municipalities. UPCi traditions date back to the times of the Second Republic of Poland. The UPCi operates on the basis of the statute, which defines the basic principles of operation, the method of selection and competences of particular authorities, the acquisition and loss of membership, the source of financing of the activity and the rules for the liquidation of the Union. The main objectives of the UPCi are: supporting the development of local government, striving for the economic and socio-cultural development of Polish cities, integrating and defending common interests, shaping a common policy, supporting initiatives for the development and promotion of cities, and sharing experience and dissemination of model solutions for development of city management. UPCi pursues its statutory objectives by: initiating and issuing opinions on draft legal acts concerning local governments, cooperating with public administration bodies, associations, other social organisations and scientific communities, and exchanging experience in the field of public tasks, undertaking joint initiatives for social and economic development of Polish cities, international scientific and cultural exchange, information and training activities. The UPCi represents the interests of cities on the national forum through participation in the works of the → Joint Commission of the Government and Local Government and in the councils, teams, committees and commissions operating at public institutions. At the international level, the UPCi participates in the work of: the EU Committee of the Regions, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe (CLRAE) – in the Local Government Chamber. The UPCi’s bodies are: the General Assembly (highest authority), the Management Board (represents UPCi outside and is responsible for day-to-day handling of cases), the Audit Committee (the body controlling the compliance of the Union bodies’ activities and budget spending) and 17 permanent subject committees (advisory bodies of the UPCi) [ A. Bejma ].