Unemployment in Poland has risen to 5.5%: what is happening in the labor market

The number of unemployed in Poland is increasing: according to the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy, as of the end of August 2025, 857.3 thousand people were registered in employment centers. This is 26.6 thousand more than in July, and 85 thousand more in annual terms. The unemployment rate has reached 5.5%, which is half a percent higher than the figure in August 2024.

Analysts from Gremi Personal note that the trend of rising unemployment has been noticeable in the summer months. The largest increase in July was recorded among those who have been looking for a job for six months to a year. The number of such people increased by almost 9% month-on-month and by almost 10% compared to last July. The number of unemployed with a shorter job search period has also increased.

In August, the number of people who lost their jobs due to bankruptcy, liquidation of enterprises, or downsizing increased. Their number amounted to 38.2 thousand, which is 15.6% more than a year ago.

The Law 'On the Labor Market and Employment Services' has changed the rules for accounting unemployed people, which may also affect the situation. However, experts believe that the main reason for the rise in unemployment is the decrease in demand for labor. Competition in the labor market in Poland has become the highest in recent years, which is evident over the past five years.

Let us also remember that Poland has tightened the rules for Ukrainian refugees.

The rise in unemployment in Poland is a clear reflection of the complex economic situation in the country. This may have further implications for the social status of the population and the overall development of the country. Low demand for labor and high competition in the labor market are the main factors contributing to the rise in unemployment and require the attention of the government and economic experts.