Poland faces low collective bargaining rates and youth unemployment challenges

A European Commission report reveals that Poland has the lowest rate of workers covered by collective bargaining agreements in the European Union, at just 11.6%. This figure falls significantly below the EU directive's 80% target intended to ensure adequate wage protection and healthy labor market relations. While Poland's statutory minimum wage has increased, the lack of collective agreements means wage formation is driven primarily by political decisions rather than negotiations between employers and employees.

Regarding employment statistics, Eurostat data shows Poland's overall unemployment rate was 3.1% in June 2026, one of the lowest in the EU. However, the situation for young people is more challenging; the unemployment rate for those under 25 reached 12.6%. Experts attribute the difficulties faced by Generation Z to market shifts, including automation and artificial intelligence, which have reduced entry-level positions and increased the demand for analytical and technological skills.