According to the latest data of the Central Statistical Office, the unemployment rate in July 2025 was 5.4 percent, which means an increase compared to 5.2 percent. in June. The number of people registered in labor offices reached 830.8 thousand, while in the previous month it was 797 thousand. A rapid increase in the number of newly registered unemployed is particularly important, which in July amounted to 108.4 thousand, compared to 85.3 thousand. in June.
The labor department explains that the increase in unemployment is primarily related to a decrease in the number of available job offers – both in traditional offices and in the Internet. The new provisions in force from June 1, 2025 have also influenced the situation on the labor market. The new Act on the labor market has revolutionized the functioning of employment offices and entities involved in professional activation. Under it, the unemployed no longer must be associated with the office competent for the place of registration, which allows registration at the place of residence.
Among the new regulations, extensive changes were introduced, such as the obligation of representatives of the public sector to publish job offers on the Epracy platform or extension of the National Training Fund. The ministry also introduced funds to support the professional activation of the elderly – instruments encouraging employers to employ pensioners.
In response to the growing social anxiety, the ministry emphasizes its involvement in activities aimed at professional activation and support of entrepreneurs. “Every year, funds for activation programs go to poviat labor offices” – reminded the ministry in an interview with PAP.
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The growing influence of AI
Despite the disturbing trends on the labor market, the situation in terms of the economic activity study of the population published by MRPiPS shows a more optimistic picture. The unemployment rate in the second quarter of 2025 dropped to 2.8 percent. compared to 3.4 percent in the first quarter, and the number of unemployed decreased by 97 thousand, reaching the level of 503 thousand.
Experts indicate that challenges on the labor market are not limited to regulatory issues. Prof. Grażyna Spytek-Bandurska from the Federation of Polish Entrepreneurs emphasizes that the growing employment costs and the impact of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, causing employers. “Employers behave belaying and do not create new jobs,” he notes.
