Poland’s Minister of Funds and Regional Policy, Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, has called for a debate on equalising the retirement age for women and men, arguing that the current system is unsustainable. She suggested that women who have raised children could be treated differently, but those without children should follow the same rules as men.
In an interview with Wirtualna Polska, Pełczyńska-Nałęcz stated that the retirement age for both sexes „should meet somewhere.” Currently, Polish women can retire at 60, while men must wait until 65. The minister emphasised that the system needs reform, pointing to demographic trends and a rapidly ageing society.
According to data from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), the number of working seniors has increased by over 50% in the last decade, even without a statutory rise in the retirement age. This suggests that many Poles are already working longer voluntarily, but the minister believes a formal adjustment is necessary.
Demographic pressures and labour market challenges
Poland’s population is projected to shrink from nearly 38 million today to 30.9 million by 2060 – a drop of almost 7 million. The Central Statistical Office (GUS) forecasts that by 2050, 40% of Poles will be of post-working age. Currently, there are 35 retirees for every 100 working-age people; by 2060, that ratio could climb to 64 retirees per 100 workers.
Experts warn that without decisive action, both the labour market and the pension system could face severe, irreversible consequences. Pełczyńska-Nałęcz’s proposal is seen as a response to these looming threats, though it is likely to spark political controversy.
Special provisions for mothers – a controversial idea
The minister suggested that women who have given birth could be granted a lower retirement age, acknowledging different life choices. – Perhaps if a woman has children, then the retirement age is different. But if she has no children – and today every second young woman makes that life choice – then she should have the same pension system as men – she explained.
This nuance has already drawn attention from both supporters and critics. Proponents argue it recognises the unpaid care work that often hampers women’s career progression and pension savings. Opponents say it could create further inequalities and complicate the system.
Pełczyńska-Nałęcz stressed that the debate should be open and inclusive, taking into account both demographic data and social expectations. She called for a gradual approach rather than abrupt changes, but made it clear that the status quo is no longer viable.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. KPRM / Flickr.com / CC 4.0 BY-NC-ND
