Poland is once again debating the implementation of a global basic income (UBI), a concept gaining traction globally as policymakers seek solutions to rising income inequality. The current discussion was sparked by a proposal from former Warsaw Stock Exchange CEO Marek Dietl, who advocates for a monthly 500 złoty payment – roughly $125 USD – as a more effective means of tax progressivity. This comes alongside a separate, larger-scale UBI proposal reportedly under consideration by the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party ahead of the 2027 elections, raising questions about the nation’s fiscal sustainability.
Former Warsaw Stock Exchange Chief Proposes Universal Basic Income Model
A proposal for a universal basic income (UBI) of 500 złoty (approximately $125 USD) per month in Poland is gaining traction, with former Warsaw Stock Exchange (GPW) CEO Marek Dietl suggesting it could be a more effective way to boost tax progressivity than existing measures like tax-free allowances. “These 500 złoty a month are a negative tax,” Dietl commented in an interview with money.pl. “I believe it’s a better way to increase progressivity throughout the tax and contribution system than a tax-free allowance or tax relief.” The discussion follows a proposal from the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party to introduce a UBI for all adult Polish citizens, regardless of income. Dietl emphasized that a progressive tax system is “fair” and promotes social cohesion.
Dietl outlined how his proposal would function, explaining that every citizen, including those with no income, would receive a monthly payment of 500 złoty. He clarified that this amount isn’t intended to cover all living expenses, as envisioned in traditional UBI concepts, but rather to “supplement budgets” compared to the current system. Individuals earning income would continue to pay progressive taxes. According to Dietl, those earning around 50,000 złoty annually would benefit most from the plan, compared to the current tax-free allowance of 30,000 złoty. This debate comes as policymakers globally explore options to address income inequality and economic security.
Experts Question Broad Support for Universal Basic Income
The debate surrounding a UBI in Poland was reignited after money.pl reported on a confidential PiS document in October. The currently unconfirmed information suggests PiS is considering a monthly 500 złoty payment for all Polish citizens, regardless of employment status, at an estimated annual cost of 160 billion złoty. The plan also includes the elimination of the tax-free allowance, potentially generating an additional 70 billion złoty in revenue. PiS is also proposing progressive taxation and an increase in the 800+ child benefit program, as part of its platform for the 2027 parliamentary elections.
The Business Centre Club (BCC), a Polish employers’ association, recently warned that the draft budget for 2026 is “very tight.” The BCC indicated that, due to excessive deficit procedures and the need for austerity, changes to programs like the 800+ benefit are likely. The 800+ program cost 63 billion złoty in 2025. The BCC’s assessment reflects broader concerns about fiscal sustainability in the face of competing economic priorities.
“The program does not achieve its intended demographic goals, and its role in reducing poverty is associated with excessive, even extravagant, costs, including payouts to high-income families,” an expert at the BCC emphasized. “It is necessary to introduce an income criterion, rather than the restrictions proposed by the government targeting only foreigners. Well-off families should not benefit from public support financed, among other things, by taxes paid by low-income individuals.”
