Skutki przyjęcia euro w Polsce w ocenach studentów

Many researchers have analyzed the benefits and costs of the planned introduction of the single European currency in Poland. But the results of these analyses have varied, depending on whether they applied to the average consumer, especially in the short term, or the economy as a whole. The paper looks at the concerns and hopes of Polish college students in the context of the planned adoption of the euro in Poland. Both full- and part-time students—representing a large and well-educated group of consumers—were asked about the costs and benefits of the move for Polish consumers. The poll covered 446 students from five university-level schools in the western city of Poznań. The authors also examined the relationship between the respondents’ knowledge and their assessment of the plan to introduce the single European currency in Poland. The answers given by students in individual schools were compared and analyzed. On the basis of their analysis the authors come up with a number of recommendations on how the government should pursue its social communication policy as far as the planned adoption of the euro in Poland is concerned. A clear position of the government is needed on the country’s preparations for adopting the euro and a concrete date of when this can happen, the authors say. It is necessary to tell the public about the benefits of introducing the euro, dispel unjustified worries involving issues such as price convergence, and counteract real threats posed by factors such as inflation stimulated by the conversion of prices and intensified economic emigration. Overall, the authors say, the analysis shows that the students are aware of the need for reforms in the Polish economy, especially with regard to the labor market.