Poland workplace trends show low engagement and working while ill

Recent reports highlight growing challenges regarding employee engagement and work habits in Poland. According to the Gallup State of the Global Workplace 2026 report, only 7% of Polish employees are actively engaged in their work. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘quiet quitting,’ involves employees performing only their essential duties and withdrawing emotional commitment due to factors such as lack of autonomy, insufficient recognition, or chaotic management.

Parallel to declining engagement, there is a trend of employees working while ill. Data from the enel-med ‘Łączy nas zdrowie 2025’ report indicates that 60% of workers have worked despite being sick without using medical leave. Furthermore, 34% of Poles have performed professional duties while officially on sick leave (L4). Experts suggest this is often driven by a sense of responsibility toward projects and a lack of adequate coverage, rather than direct pressure from supervisors.