Poland is set to begin its first-ever trial of a shortened working week this July, marking a significant shift in the country’s labour policy as the government responds to mounting social and economic pressures for change.
The pilot, backed by government support, is part of a broader discussion taking place across Europe and beyond, as employees increasingly call for a better balance between work and personal life. Long working hours, rising burnout rates, and evolving views on productivity have pushed the idea of a four-day workweek to the forefront of policy debates in Poland.
According to data from Eurostat, Poland remains one of the most overworked nations in the European Union. The traditional five-day workweek, introduced over a century ago, is being re-evaluated in light of modern advancements in technology, automation, and workplace efficiency.
Other countries have already tested shorter workweek models with promising results. Trials in Iceland, Belgium, Spain, and Japan have reported increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, improved workplace morale, and enhanced employee well-being.
In Poland, expectations for change are clear. “Today’s labour market is no longer defined by hours spent in the office, but by the quality and outcomes of the work,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Family and Social Policy. The pilot programme aims to gather data-driven insights to assess the economic and social impact of reduced working hours.
Reactions among employers are mixed. Larger corporations, particularly in the tech and creative industries, have expressed interest and in some cases have already implemented flexible hours or trialled shortened weeks. In contrast, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are more cautious. Many cite concerns about revenue loss, operational disruptions, and the need to hire more staff to compensate for reduced hours.
To address these concerns, the government is offering financial support to participating companies, helping them manage potential short-term risks and assess long-term benefits.
Advocates argue that smarter work organisation could yield the same or better output in less time. International studies suggest that shortened weeks can improve efficiency, reduce mistakes, and stimulate innovation. Yet, some economists warn that the shift could lead to increased operational costs, decreased competitiveness, and slower GDP growth.
Still, the momentum is growing. Institutions such as Herbapol Poznań and several city governments—including Włocławek, Ostrzeszów, Świebodzice, and Leszno—have already adopted reduced working hours, reporting lower stress levels and greater employee engagement.
The four-day workweek, supporters say, represents more than a schedule change; it’s a transformation in workplace culture—one that prioritises trust, output, and well-being over time spent at a desk. While the pilot may face challenges, it marks a bold step toward reshaping the future of work in Poland.
