Myth vs. reality: how do we know how many foreign citizens work in Poland?
In public debate, figures regarding the employment of foreign citizens are often cited without any specific source. However, different institutions measure this phenomenon differently. The discussion touches on issues related to the multiple sources of data on immigrants working in Poland. Dr Izabela Florczak underlines that the most comprehensive representation of the phenomenon comes from ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) statistics, although even these are incomplete – some people work outside the formal system.
According to analyses based on ZUS data, approximately 2 million foreign citizens are active in the labour market, with the largest group being Ukrainian citizens.
Where do foreign citizens work and what would happen if they suddenly left?
The conversation also addresses employment issues in specific industries. In practice, foreign citizens often perform jobs described as "elementary” – though this label itself can be misleading. Their presence is particularly visible in sectors such as construction, logistics and warehousing. Dr Florczak emphasises that in the event of a sudden outflow of this workforce, a part of the economy would be paralysed – it cannot be replaced overnight by other groups in the labour market.
It's not just a job: the crucial “context” of employment
The living conditions associated with work: housing and transportation, which are often provided (for a fee) by the employer is one of the most prominent themes in the episode. Dr Florczak, drawing on research on Nepalese citizens, describes workers' accommodations that fall short of basic standards: overcrowded rooms and a lack of basic amenities are common sights.
The broader psychosocial context is also important: visitors inevitably compare their living conditions with "how Poles live." When this difference becomes too stark, frustration and potential tensions arise.
"Creativity" and the regulatory spiral: when the system works against itself
The discussion presents a mechanism whereby revealed pathologies create pressure for stricter regulations. This, in turn, hinders the operation of legal entities without eliminating practices that circumvent the law. Dr Izabela Florczak calls this a "tightening of the knot" of control and warns that at some point the entire system could become oppressive.
Studying as a "gateway"? Consequences for universities and true internationalisation
The podcast also touches on a crucial topic for higher education: using the study path as a pretext for entry and employment. Dr Florczak describes the phenomenon of universities existing solely to issue certificates of study and student IDs, and its negative consequences for the entire community – because the system's reactions and the introduction of strict regulations also affect universities that operate reliably.
At the same time, the conversation clearly highlights why authentic internationalisation is so valuable: cultural diversity and experiences from exchange programmes (e.g. Erasmus+) really build the quality of education and academic life.
A new phase of the "Science Inspires" podcast
This episode inaugurates a new chapter in the podcast's history. Recordings are now conducted in Radio Łódź's professional studio, with the interviews co-hosted by Michał Gruda and Radio Łódź journalist Joanna Karp.
The recording was produced as part of the " Lodz for Young People" programme, run by the Marshal's Office in Lodz.
Edit: Michał Gruda (Centre for External Relations and Social Responsibility of the University, University of Lodz)
