State support should be aimed at those who need it most, a point made by Paweł Zalewski, a member of parliament with Poland 2050, during an interview in the PAP Studio. He reminded listeners that the idea of a benefit being permanent does not always hold, noting that the situation has evolved since the introduction of the 500 plus program. He suggested that 800 plus is not merely a social handout but part of a broader discussion about how benefits fit into the country’s policy framework, and he referenced Marek Sawicki’s discussions about social benefits as part of that conversation.
No more handouts? What does Hołownia mean?
Following the exit poll results, Szymon Hołownia signaled that the era of quarrels and handouts should end in Poland. Zalewski, who raised the question of whether programs like 800 plus for working people might continue under a new government, indicated that such questions would be debated once the coalition is formed.
The approach is straightforward: state aid should be directed to those who genuinely need it. At the same time, there is a belief that state policy should tilt toward investments rather than broad redistribution, because investments benefit everyone and help Poland grow.
– said Zalewski.
What about the promise that “what is given shall not be taken away”?
When asked whether this promise contradicted remarks from a leader of the PSL about not taking away benefits, Zalewski responded that, at the same time, 800 plus would apply to working people. He framed this as consistent with Poland 2050’s outlook, which emphasizes investing rather than giving away, and pointed to the low unemployment rate and the view that opportunities exist for those who want to work.
– added.
A PAP journalist noted that Marek Sawicki of the PSL stressed there would be no changes to social benefits. Zalewski reminded readers that when the 500 plus program was introduced, some argued that 800 plus would be its continuation and that it should not be viewed as a social benefit; Sawicki, however, discussed the broader concept of social benefits.
– replied Zalewski.
He suggested that this topic will likely be part of coalition discussions.
– added.
Those who genuinely need support will receive effective state assistance, while those who are ready to work can build their futures. It is worth noting that today’s minimum wage is higher than in the past, reflecting policy choices that have helped many find employment despite significant wage floors. This is cited as a consequence of the current government’s approach, and it means that finding work remains possible even with a higher minimum wage.
– said the politician.
No handouts, but investments and targeted help for those in real need
– he emphasized.
He also stressed that discussions about benefits and the fulfillment of campaign promises require a precise assessment of public finances. It is necessary to understand the state of the budget and the level of debt, because a serious political environment must be honest about fiscal realities.
– he said.
Will they abolish the 13th and 14th pensions?
During a live chat on Radio ZET, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz was asked whether the new government would scrap the 13th and 14th pensions once in office. He indicated that a tax-free pension could be introduced, while Krzysztof Gawkowski from the New Left asserted that his group would not support ending the 13th and 14th pensions.
Zalewski added that his faction has ideas for ensuring pension adequacy. Retirees are acknowledged as a financially vulnerable group, and while the current discussion focuses on avoiding the erosion of benefits due to inflation, the party aims to introduce measures that improve retirement security without compromising overall fiscal stability.
– said the MP.
The goal is clear: ensure that retirees benefit from changes without being worse off as a result, and to balance improvements with budget realities.
It appears the opposition, seen as poised to gain power, is reconsidering several campaign promises and questioning previous statements about guarantees not being withdrawn. In the background, observers note that some opponents may be preparing to adjust or withdraw from certain programs, a development that raises questions about the trajectory of welfare policies as new leadership takes charge. The discussion continues as analysts weigh how such shifts could affect programs like 500 plus and 800 plus.
People are watching closely what this means for policy direction and for the fiscal plan that accompanies any shift in government priorities. In the end, the focus remains on ensuring that help reaches those who truly need it while maintaining a sustainable budget and clear long-term goals for the economy.