Poland's minimum wage is set to potentially rise significantly as the government works on implementing a new EU directive for minimum wage calculations.
The current minimum wage in Poland stands at 4,806 PLN gross, which constitutes about 51% of the average salary, translating to approximately 3,606 PLN net. However, recent reports indicate that there is a possibility for the minimum wage to increase notably in the near future. This conversation is fueled by discussions surrounding the need for changes in how the minimum wage is calculated, especially in light of new European Union directives requiring a clearer mechanism for determining minimum wage levels.
Work is underway on a draft law aimed at modifying the calculation of the minimum wage in Poland, which aligns with an EU directive that mandates the establishment of a clear formula. According to the proposed guidelines, the minimum wage should reflect 60% of the median wage or 50% of the average wage in member states. This transition aims to standardize wage structures across European nations and enhance workers' livelihoods.
The implementation of the EU directive is reportedly delayed, with a deadline set for November 15, 2024. The reason for this delay, according to various sources, is a lack of consensus within the Polish government about how to proceed. This situation underscores the complexities of labor reforms in Poland as policymakers navigate both EU requirements and domestic economic conditions.
