Poland's Wages Lag Behind EU Average,Statistics Show

Recent statistics released by Eurostat and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reveal that Poland ranks 23rd among 26 European states in terms of salaries for 2023, with an average hourly wage of 11.9 euros. This places Poland below the EU average, highlighting the disparities in working hours and salaries across EU countries.

Why this matters: The significant wage disparities across EU member states have implications for economic competitiveness and social cohesion, as they can lead to brain drain and talent migration from countries with lower wages. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring fair compensation for workers and promotingeconomic growth within the EU.

According to the data, only Slovakia (12.5 euros), Hungary (11 euros), Latvia (10.7 euros), Romania (10.4 euros), and Bulgaria (8.4 euros) have lower average hourly wages than Poland. In contrast, the Benelux Grand Duchy of Luxembourg boasts the highest average hourly rate at 47 euros, followed by Denmark (42 euros), Norway (41.7 euros), non-EU Iceland (39.5 euros), and Belgium (36.3 euros).

The statistics also shed light on the situation in Greece, which ranks 20th in terms of salaries with an average hourly wage of 12.6 euros, despite having the 7th highest average working time among the 38 OECD countries. Greece has a high rate of workers with long hours, with 11.6% of employed people working 49 hours or more per week.

In an effort to address this issue, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced an increase in the minimum wage, effective from April 1st, 2024. "The decision [to increase the minimum wage] will relieve workers without affecting the strength of the economy and the competitiveness of businesses," stated Mitsotakis. The wage hike is expected to affect approximately 600,000 workers in Greece, where the average weekly salary is estimated at 456.31 euros for an average working week of 36.27 hours.

The recent statistics from Eurostat and the OECD underscore the significant differences in working conditions and compensation across EU member states. As countries like Poland and Greece grapple with wages below the EU average, policymakers face the challenge of balancingeconomic competitivenesswith the need to ensure fair compensation for workers.

Key Takeaways

• Poland ranks 23rd in EU hourly wages at €11.9, below the EU average.
• Wage disparities across EU states can lead to brain drain and talent migration.
• Luxembourg has the highest hourly wage at €47, while Bulgaria has the lowest at €8.4.
• Greece ranks 20th in salaries, with an average hourly wage of €12.6, despite long working hours.
• Greek PM announces minimum wage increase to relieve workers without affecting economy.