The participation rate of Ukrainians in the labor force of Poland exceeds the indicators among the Poles themselves and stands at 75–85%. This is stated in a new study by the Polish Economic Institute (PIE), which also records a high level of integration of Ukrainian migrants into Polish society. This is reported by inPoland.
According to analysts, about 40% of adult Ukrainian citizens have a high or very high probability of staying in Poland permanently. Currently, more than 1.5 million Ukrainians legally reside in the country, and they constitute one of the key groups in the labor market.
Participation of Ukrainians and Integration in Poland
The highest readiness to stay in Poland is demonstrated by relatively young Ukrainians who have lived in the country for more than four years – even before the full-scale war. The study shows that economic stability is not the main factor for long-term decision-making.
Analysts note:
- about half of Ukrainian migrants are in a transitional state;
- the main reasons for staying remain work and lack of alternatives;
- the decisive factor is the feeling of belonging to Polish society.
The identity factor influences the decision to stay more than four times stronger than purely economic circumstances.
Ukrainians in the labor market of Poland: Risks for the economy
PIE warns that a potential mass exodus of Ukrainian workers could significantly impact the Polish economy. It concerns the possible exit of up to 650,000 workers employed in critically important sectors.
Analysts see the most risks for such industries:
- industry;
- construction;
- services;
- logistics.
The study emphasizes that Ukrainian workers have already become a systemic part of the Polish labor market, and their further presence or outflow will have long-term consequences for the country's economy.
If you are interested in working in Poland, we suggest checking out 350,000 job vacancies on the Layboard portal.
Poland and the Czech Republic demonstrate a record low unemployment rate of 2.6% - the lowest among EU countries. Experts point to several factors that have ensured such low levels of unemployment in Poland and the Czech Republic: stable economic growth, an active state policy in the labor market, and, importantly, the contribution of Ukrainian refugees.