The study, conducted by IBRiS in late 2024, found that 40% of children in Poland do not feel happy—16 percentage points higher than in 2019. School-related stress was cited as the most significant issue by 70% of respondents, while parents remain largely unaware of their children’s emotional struggles.
The report also revealed a sharp decline in the perception of teachers respecting children’s rights. Only 38% of respondents said their rights were upheld by teachers, a 32 percentage-point drop from 2019. One in four children reported that their rights were not respected in school, highlighting growing concerns over the treatment of students in the education system.
Despite schools claiming to educate children about their rights, awareness has decreased. While 89% of children said they had heard about their rights, this represents a six-point drop from 2019. Parents largely believe they are informing their children, with 70% reporting discussions on the topic, but only half expressed confidence in their own knowledge. The report suggests a disconnect between official policies and their effectiveness in practice.
Children and young people in Poland also show low engagement in social and civic activities. Only 20-28% expressed interest in student councils, youth city councils, or protests, with environmental protection and charitable initiatives drawing the most engagement (36%). Limited decision-making power in schools and at home further discourages participation, the report found.
UNICEF Poland called for greater collaboration between parents and schools, improved teacher training on children’s rights, and a stronger emphasis on student involvement in decision-making. It also recommended expanding children’s rights education and creating spaces for meaningful youth participation in schools. Strengthening student-teacher relationships through joint initiatives was also highlighted as a way to improve well-being.
Renata Bem, director general of UNICEF Poland, emphasized the need for systemic change.
“Ensuring children’s safety and providing an environment for their development is a priority,” she said. “Children should know, understand, and be able to exercise their rights. It is our responsibility as adults to promote and implement these rights while actively including children in decisions that affect them.”
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Source: PAP