The process of economic transformation in Poland was accompanied by a debate on the state’s role in the economy. In simple terms, this choice boils down to two options: adopting the (neo)liberal model, in which the state’s responsibility for satisfying social needs is limited, or the welfare model, in which the state redistributes income and actively cares about the social security of its citizens. This article attempts to answer the question whether the term ‘welfare state’ could be applied to Poland (see below).
I would like to thank Jan Rutkowski for his helpful comments and remarks. The content of this publication reflects the opinions of the author, which may diverge from the position of the Institute for Structural Research. The usual disclaimers apply. Independent study based on Eurostat data. Eurostat is not liable for the presented results and conclusions.
