Experiencing Inequality in the Polish Labor Market: Socio-Demographic Determinants of Women’s Perceptions

Magdalena Kozera-Kowalska; Jarosław Uglis; Katarzyna Nawrocik

doi:10.56583/fs.3069

Published : 2026-07-17

Experiencing Inequality in the Polish Labor Market: Socio-Demographic Determinants of Women’s Perceptions

Dr. habil. Magdalena Kozera-Kowalska, Assoc. Prof

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9245-0548

Dr. Jarosław Uglis

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6653-2745

Katarzyna Nawrocik

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4852-5055

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56583/fs.3069

Abstract

This article examines inequalities in the Polish labor market, with a particular focus on the gender perspective. Based on 203 surveys collected between July and October 2025 from individuals who follow job-search blogs, the study identifies how gender-based inequalities are perceived. It assesses perceptions of the legal protection afforded to women and men as employees, while determining the extent of unequal treatment of women. The findings indicate that perceptions of discrimination against women are significantly influenced by structural barriers to career development, advancement, and labor market entry or re-entry. Furthermore, cases of discrimination against women in the Polish labor market are significantly more frequent than those against men. Consequently, the perception of the scale of unequal treatment is strongly rooted in gendered experiences and perspectives, fitting into broader European patterns of gender inequality.

Keywords:

labor market, experience of inequality, gender, unequal treatment factors, legal protection against discrimination

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Kozera-Kowalska, M., Uglis, J., & Nawrocik, K. (2026). Experiencing Inequality in the Polish Labor Market: Socio-Demographic Determinants of Women’s Perceptions. Facta Simonidis, online first 17 lipca 2026. https://doi.org/10.56583/fs.3069

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