Poland evaluates four-day work week following government pilot program

The Polish Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy is analyzing the results of a government pilot program designed to test shortened working hours. The experiment, which began on January 1, 2026, and is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026, aims to determine if reducing work hours can improve employee well-being without negatively impacting business productivity or service quality.

Initially, 1,994 enterprises and institutions applied for the program. The pilot is currently being implemented by 78 entities, including 38 private companies and 40 public institutions, affecting nearly 5,000 employees. The program structure involved a 10 percent reduction in working hours during the first half of the year, increasing to a 20 percent reduction in the second half.

Based on the findings, the Ministry is considering various models for future labor law amendments, such as a four-day work week, shorter working days, or additional days off, all while maintaining current salary levels.