In a recent poll conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (IBRiS), a large majority of Poles are opposed to a shift towards a cashless world. 

More than 80% of Poles declare that they do not want cash to be withdrawn from circulation. In the meantime, less than 16% of respondents would perceive the replacement of all traditional cash payments.

The large majority of those opposed to withdrawing cash are categoric in their stance when it comes to this issue. 66.5% of respondents say to be “strongly against” moving away from cash. 

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Poles are not the only ones to have apprehension towards a cashless society. Germans share a similar point of view. In Austria, over 500,000 people have already signed a petition asking for a referendum to make cash payments a constitutionally protected right. 111,000 signatures were also gathered on a similar petition in Switzerland.

When considering this example, let’s keep in mind that the total population of Austria is less than 9 million. Sweden has even recently enacted laws ensuring the maintenance of traditional payment is use. 

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The debate surrounding a potential progressive withdrawal of cash from circulation has been ongoing for quite some time now. Those who support the idea draw attention to the safety aspect of it, while opponents predict a reduction of their freedom.

Image: Unsplash

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen