Generational conflicts have always existed, a fact evident even to those with a cursory knowledge of history. Different eras have consistently opposed each other, not merely at the turn of the century. Adam Mickiewicz documented the disputes between the old and the young (the Romantics versus the Classics), likely unaware that these issues would continue to affect subsequent generations.

Is it possible that the mentality of the 'old' remains unchanged? In his "Ode to Youth," we read, "No Heart, no Spirit – Lo! cadaverous crowds!" This unwillingness to embrace positive change remains strikingly familiar.

Generation Z (individuals born between 1995 and 2012) represents the newest cohort in the labour market and constitutes a significant portion of the consumer market. A study by the Wrocław University of Technology reveals that only 17.4% are unemployed. Despite the stereotypes, statistics indicate that Generation Z is, in fact, quite industrious.

Nevertheless, older generations often complain, labelling the young as demanding and unwilling to work. These criticisms usually stem from the surprise that 20-year-olds refuse to toil for months in unpaid internships, perform tasks deserving of payment, succumb to pressure for unpaid overtime, or forsake their rights to breaks. Indeed, what a scandal, what a slander, what a misunderstanding!

The conflict between Generation Z and their employers shows no signs of abating. Although employers must adhere to labour laws, they often respond to "Zoomers’ demands" with statements like, "There are at least ten people ready to take your job." Frequently, they also fall back on excuses related to the "management style of the 1990s." Grzegorz Laskowski, an IT specialist and entrepreneur, expressed his disdain for young people quite clearly on X, where he wrote:

"Nothing annoys me more than those demanding brats who expect to work four days a week for a minimum of 7.5 thousand PLN, with a state-sponsored flat, simply because they believe they deserve it. Meanwhile, I have to earn everything and pay taxes as well."

It is worth specifying that companies in many countries have introduced a four-day working week without causing economic collapse. This solution is effective in Austria, Denmark, Belgium, the UK, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Germany. Poland would not be a pioneer in this regard. Additionally, no one expects housing to be free; young people simply want these flats to be accessible.

Living alone on the national average salary under a standard employment contract, which many Poles do not even get (8,408.79 PLN gross, about 6,061 PLN net), and covering the minimum cost of living (3,500 PLN for rent, car, and food), would secure only a 350,000 PLN loan from the bank. This would result in monthly mortgage payments of 2,500 PLN, leading to a total repayment of 900,000 PLN, according to online credit capacity calculators.

The monthly mortgage payment may seem manageable, but it should be noted that purchasing a flat for 350,000 PLN is close to impossible, especially in bigger cities. Moreover, not everyone wants to live in the countryside or a small town, as they may lack friends, family, job opportunities, or prospects in those areas. The problem is evident: Generation Z cannot afford a flat, and renting is as expensive as paying a mortgage. At this point, the system is clearly failing.

Grzegorz Laskowski's post went viral and gained considerable popularity. Many people agree with his view, as evidenced by the more than 300 likes, but negative comments are also plentiful, with many pointing out the entrepreneur's hypocrisy.

"Grzesiu, you ran a subpar company for years where you paid a flat rate, contributing much less in taxes than any employee earning as much as you do. You are the last person who should complain about taxes in this country," writes Gromota, a popular commentator on political and social issues on X. He also shared a screenshot of Laskowski’s post on taxes from 2021 as proof.

Laskowski did not engage in a discussion. Instead of offering substantive arguments, he replied briefly, "With a scumbag like you, I'm not on a first-name basis. Also, what an internet detective you are!"

"They should eat sorrel and Mirabelle plums, a band of freeloaders!" ironically echoes streamer Andrzej Śledź. "It's a good thing you have worked several jobs since kindergarten despite living with your brothers in the lake..." mocks another internet user, referencing a Monty Python joke. "At most, the profession of 'entrepreneur' means you're on a B2B contract, or you're short of cheap workers to exploit," adds another commentator. "These young people are better off than we were, as we allowed ourselves to be exploited and worked for a pittance, often in undignified conditions. It's commendable that they value their worth more than the interests of their employers," concludes user X.