Public Debate Sparks After Balcerowicz Calls for Privatization
Leszek Balcerowicz again provoked a heated public reaction with remarks on Poland’s largest state-owned corporations. The economist argued that privatizing these entities would be beneficial and prompted a wave of discussion across social media platforms.
During an appearance on RMF radio, Balcerowicz touched on state ownership and the role of government in the economy. His stance focused on the risks he associates with a heavily state-led economy and the long-term consequences observed in other nations that relied extensively on a dominant state sector.
He framed the issue as a potential move away from politicization of the economy, arguing that excessive state control often led to economic stagnation and, in some cases, authoritarian governance. He stressed that nations with large public sectors either faced economic decline or drifted toward non-democratic systems.
Asked about privatization of the biggest state-owned enterprises, Balcerowicz suggested that privatization projects had existed for a long time and did not necessarily involve foreign capital. He proposed models where citizen ownership, supported by pension funds, could play a role in rebuilding state assets and funding social programs.
When pressed whether these companies should be privatized, he answered clearly: Naturally.
The economist also weighed in on pension policy, proposing the abolition of the thirteenth and fourteenth pensions. He argued these payments amount to about PLN 37 billion annually and are not part of current budget revenues. He described the current expenditures as bloated and urged trimming those that do not directly support economic development. He argued that promised transfers linked to party platforms should be reconsidered to avoid currency-like fiscal creeping crises.
– he noted.
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Internet Reactions
Balcerowicz’s remarks sparked strong responses online. The discussion turned to questions about the future of state-owned companies such as Orlen and Poczta Polska, and whether privatization or broader shareholder models should prevail. The idea of citizen ownership resurfaced as a central theme in many comments.
Some commenters recalled earlier privatization efforts and the fierce debates that accompanied them. Others warned about the risks of selling strategic assets and questioned whether such moves would benefit ordinary citizens or merely attract foreign capital. A recurrent point was whether privatization should prioritize national security and long-term stability while offering relief from bloated public expenditures.
A number of voices criticized the view that privatization alone could solve structural problems, arguing that the outcome depends on the governance framework, regulatory quality, and clear objectives for social equity. Some commentators challenged the notion that privatization is a universal remedy, insisting that any reform must be tailored to Poland’s political and economic realities.
In the discussion about pension reforms, several participants argued for targeted reforms over blanket cuts. They highlighted the importance of protecting social safety nets while ensuring the fiscal sustainability of the pension system. Others contended that political promises should not dictate fiscal policy and that long-term economic health requires disciplined budgeting and modernization of public finances.
Observers also noted the political undertone of the debate, suggesting that partisan messaging often shapes public perceptions of privatization and pension reforms. They called for careful, fact-based discussions that separate ideological stances from practical policy outcomes. The conversation continued across social media, news outlets, and talk radio, reflecting the polarized yet persistent interest in Poland’s economic future.
Citizens and commentators alike urged a nuanced approach to privatization, balancing national interests with the potential benefits of broader shareholder participation. The dialogue underscored the ongoing tension between calls for market-oriented reforms and the desire to safeguard strategic sectors and employment for Polish citizens.
Notes: discussions cited from RMF radio coverage and subsequent social media reactions. [Citation: RMF interview and related commentary; dates current to publication period; attribution to wPolityce as a source context]