Four-day work week trial begins in Poland

Poland officially launched a pilot program for a four-day work week on July 1, 2025. Under this initiative, employees are offered the option of either a 32-hour four-day work week or a 35-hour five-day work week. Participants have the opportunity to choose the model that best suits them.

The trial program has begun implementation in both public sector institutions and private sector companies. In addition to the Poznan-based herbal products company Herbapol, the municipalities of Wloclawek, Ostrzeszow, Swiebodzice, and Leszno have also joined the pilot project and transitioned to the new model.

According to initial data, most employees state that they have achieved higher motivation and productivity with the shortened working hours. Officials note a visible decrease in employees' stress levels. Furthermore, an increase in work quality is also drawing attention.

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Poland, which has been one of the countries with the longest working hours among European Union nations, aims to be a pioneer of a radical change in working life with this pilot application. Especially in the post-pandemic period, the negative effects of long working hours on private life and health were frequently discussed. If the pilot project continues to yield positive results, the expansion of the new model and its implementation in other sectors is on the agenda.

News Source: 12punto