Purpose:The paper aims to show that different characteristics of the Silesian autochthonous population resulting from unique cultural and civilizational roots and different values have a positive impact on the regional socio-economic development. Design/Methodology/Approach: The innovative approach establishes the relationship between the presence and activity of the Silesian autochthonous population and regional development. The first subject of analysis concerned the comparison of migration behavior of two different ethnic groups residing in Silesia, namely the autochthonous Silesian population and the Polish population of immigrant origin, using mainly the micro census method. The second research study was a comparative socio-economic analysis of areas inhabited by the Silesian population and typologically similar areas inhabited by the Polish people of immigrant origin. Finally, the third research area concerned a survey among representatives of local authorities, who assessed the role of Silesians in the process of regional development. Findings: The paper's main finding is that the location of the Silesian autochthonous population in the Opole Province has had a notable positive impact on several economic and demographic features, in addition to a very positive assessment of the population by the local authorities. Furthermore, the Silesian population has been recognized as a significant and positive development potential of the Opole Province. Practical Implications: The results of the analysis might be used in determining a suitable development strategy. They also highlight the need for proper management of ethnic groups in regional development and diversity as economic and social potential. Originality/Value: Research results can contribute to constructing theoretical models regarding ethnic groups and their role in sustainable regional development.

Purpose: This paper aims to show the positive role of the German minority in Poland by considering its influence on socioeconomic development. Design/Methodology/Approach: The novel approach is to find the relationship between the presence of the German minority and the socioeconomic regional development in the opinion of local authorities. For this purpose, the survey method was used. The surveys were conducted among the Opole Province local authorities concerning their opinion about the role of the German minority in respect of particular areas of socioeconomic development. Findings: The main achievement of this paper is establishing that the German minority living in Poland, mainly in the Opole Province, has had a remarkable positive impact on several economic, social, cultural, and demographic phenomena, as well as on improving Polish-German relations in the opinion of regional authorities. Practical Implications: The results of the analysis might be used in shaping an appropriate development policy. They may also indicate the need for appropriate management of minority groups in regional development, and on the other hand, to use ethnic diversity as a potential of the region, a primarily economic one. Originality/Value: Research results can contribute to theoretical models regarding ethnic groups and local and regional development.