Human Capital in the Polish Regions Implications for the EU Financial Perspective 2014–2020

Abstract

This study addresses the problem of differences in the human capital level in the Polish regions. Human capital is one of the most important factors of regional competitiveness in the knowledge-based economy. The research results reveal differences of the human capital levels in 16 Polish regions at the end of 2007–2013 EU financial framework, basing on the NUTS-2 level. This snapshot on the Polish regions is aimed at providing deep understanding of the regional disparities in Poland in terms of human capital level and their consequences.

The highest levels of human capital can be observed in Mazowieckie, Małopolskie, Dolnośląskie, Wielkopolskie or Ślskie which seem to lure the highly skilled individuals from all over Poland with employment opportunities and relatively high wage levels. This natural process constantly deepens the disparities in human capital levels between Polish regions but on the other hand it allows for creating centers with high levels of human capital, which can be competitive on the global market. This raises a policy question, if during the financial framework 2014–2020 Poland will be willing ensure cohesion on the regional level in this regard, or will rather choose to concentrate the EU funding in the most dynamic regions, supporting them in the global competition.