Empowering Progress: Poland’s Advancement in PwC’s 2024 Women in Work Index

Poland has demonstrated significant progress in PwC’s latest “Women in Work Index 2024,” rising from 8th to 6th place among 33 OECD countries. The index evaluates the working conditions and professional activity of women, taking into account factors such as the gender pay gap, employment and unemployment rates, and the prevalence of full-time and part-time work.

With a score of 75.6 points, Poland’s ascent can be attributed to a notable surge in the professional engagement of Polish women, particularly those of working age. Presently, two-thirds of working-age Polish women are active in the workforce, a substantial increase from just over half 15 years ago. The employment rate for women has also risen to 67.4% in 2022, though it still lags behind the OECD average by almost five percentage points.

A standout feature for Poland in this ranking is its commendable performance in the gender pay gap analysis. Despite a slight increase from 4.5% to 4.9% this year, Poland’s gender pay gap remains significantly smaller than the OECD average of 13.5%. This reinforces Poland’s commitment to gender equality in the labor market.

The Women in Work Index ranking highlights Poland’s superior position compared to most regional counterparts within the second ten. Slovenia stands out as an exception, maintaining its position among the top three countries with the greatest gender equality in the labor market. Luxembourg leads the overall ranking with an impressive score of 81.2 points, boasting a unique negative pay gap where the average salary of women exceeds that of men.

Experts commend Poland’s remarkable progress in the Women in Work Index, emphasizing its higher standing compared to other regional nations. This achievement underscores Poland’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment for women, setting a positive example for the broader OECD community.

Investment Outlook and Business Perspective

Poland remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the European Union. With GDP exceeding EUR 650 billion, Poland is the sixth largest economy in the EU and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The country has maintained positive economic growth for over three decades, including through multiple global crises.

Foreign direct investment in Poland continues to grow, driven by the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, EU membership, competitive costs, and improving infrastructure. Key sectors attracting investment include manufacturing, technology, business services, logistics, and financial services.

For investors considering entry into the Polish market, proper structuring of the investment vehicle is crucial. The choice between a sp. z o.o. (LLC), S.A. (joint-stock company), branch office, or joint venture depends on the investment size, sector, tax considerations, and long-term strategic objectives. Professional advisory can help optimize the structure from both operational and tax perspectives.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our personal income tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.