Stories from Warsaw · Poland

A new internship law in Poland has expanded to include all employees as of May 1. The law allows periods worked under mandate contracts or business activities to be counted toward seniority and work experience. Previously, the law only applied to the public sector starting January 1. Minister of Development and Technology Tomasz Lewandowski stated that digital technologies provide a basis for further reducing working hours. Lewandowski compared the current technological shift to the 19th-century introduction of machinery which also shortened work time. He described the goal as a social evolution focused on allowing citizens more time for family and hobbies. The minister said that this transition should be an evolution rather than a revolution to avoid harming economic development.

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs summarized the economic and social effects of Poland's 22 years of membership in the European Union. GDP per capita rose from less than 50% to over 80% of the EU average. Average wages increased by more than 180%, while unemployment fell from 19% to 3%. Unemployment in the country has fallen from 19% to 3%, according to Katarzyna Smych, director of the European Commission representation. Smych stated that decisions in the EU are not made by Brussels alone but involve Polish representatives. She said that Poland is an active part of the Union's functioning. Unemployment in Poland reached 6.1% at the end of March, marking the highest level since September 2021. In certain regions, unemployment rates have reached double digits. The report noted that the 'Niepodzielony Ład' initiative is a factor impacting the Polish labor market.

Veterinarians in Poland have observed a new pathogen, hepatozonkanis, in wolves, foxes, and dogs. The exact cause for its emergence in Poland remains unknown because the primary vector is a tick species not previously observed in the country. The discovery is described as an interesting development by the source. Medical professionals are conducting studies to understand the vector and spread of the parasite.

The New Left party in Poland has decided to cancel all previously planned May Day events. This decision follows the death of MP Kasia Litewka.

The Polish energy ministry stated it has the technical capacity to handle energy deliveries to ensure regional security. Analysts suggest there may be deeper implications regarding the status of Rosneft-Deutschland, which holds stakes in the PCK refinery in Schwedt.

Two ministries were dismissed from Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government during a Sejm session. The dismissal occurred just before the May long weekend in Poland. The session concluded with this cabinet change.

The President of Poland vetoed regulations to the electoral code that would have blocked certain individuals from functioning within electoral commissions. The announcement was made during a May 1st news service on Polskie Radio 3. The proposed change applied specifically to married couples without minor children. The veto prevents the simplified administrative divorce process from proceeding. The amendment would have allowed divorces for married couples without minor children at civil registry offices. The legislation specifically addressed divorces between two adults in marriages without children where the woman is not pregnant. According to data from the Central Statistical Office, over 57,000 divorces were adjudicated in Poland in 2024, with 40% involving childless marriages.

The European Commission has initiated a complaint procedure against Poland regarding environmental protection failures. The investigation covers issues including air quality, river pollution, and the lack of progress on odor-related legislation. The source noted that the 'odor law' remains inactive despite political calls for action. The organization alleges that these delays, which should be temporary, have been continuously extended for over a year. Philanthropist Zuzanna Kacupska stated the complaint concerns the systematic violation of European Union rights by the country.

This status would enable the river to sue in court to protect its interests and participate in administrative proceedings. The bill is currently being processed by joint committees following a vote by 210 members of parliament.

The statement was made during ongoing proceedings regarding alleged irregularities. The testimony addresses claims that the foundation's actions were politically motivated. The source confirmed the investigation is continuing. Dubajko characterized the allegations as politically motivated.