Polish care workers escalate fight for fair wages at Emeis nursing homes

Care workers at Emeis nursing homes across Poland are engaged in a labour dispute following years of unsuccessful efforts to reach a collective bargaining agreement with the French company. Represented by UNI Global Union’s affiliate OPZZ Konfederacja Pracy, 1,200 workers—including nurses, allied health professionals, carers, catering and cleaning staff, and administrative personnel—are demanding fair wages, improved working conditions, and better care standards.

On 28 February 2025, OPZZ KP formally notified Emeis (formerly Orpea) of the dispute, which affects 15 care homes nationwide. The dispute centers on eight key issues, including:

• Wage increases above the national minimum wage
• Improved allowances and bonuses
• Establishment of a social benefits fund for employees
• Introduction of a ‘Medical Caregiver’ position

The District Labour Inspector in Warsaw has been notified, and a mediation meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 20 March, in an attempt to resolve the impasse. Union members have committed to taking all necessary actions to push for fair wages, better conditions, and higher-quality care for residents. 

A recent UNI Global Union survey of care workers worldwide highlighted that poor pay and difficult working conditions are driving a staffing crisis in the sector. Without urgent improvements in wages and benefits, the industry risks losing more skilled caregivers, further threatening the quality of care for residents.

“We have spent years trying to negotiate in good faith, but Emeis refuses to respect our work,” said Anna Bacia, a worker at one of the affected nursing homes. “All we are asking for is recognition of our value and the care we provide to residents every day. We won’t be ignored, and we won’t give up. We will do whatever it takes!“

Alan Sable, Head of Care for UNI Global Union, called on Emeis to resolve the dispute swiftly. “The time is now for Emeis to honour its commitment and settle this dispute fairly. Improving wages and respecting workers’s rights is not just about justice—it is also essential to stopping the exodus of caregivers from nursing homes. If this crisis continues, it will have devastating consequences for residents who depend on quality care.”

In 2022, representatives of Emeis (formerly Orpea) and UNI Global Union signed a global agreement to uphold the rights of 70,000 employees to the fundamental freedoms of trade unions, as well as to the ability to create the conditions for productive social dialogue and collective bargaining.

UNI Global Union stands in solidarity with OPZZ KP and the care workers fighting for dignity and fairness in their workplaces. This dispute is not only about improving jobs but also about ensuring the highest standards of care for Poland’s elderly and vulnerable populations.