Social security challenges in Kielce: poverty, labor market dynamics, and policy interventions

Aim of Study: This article aims to analyze the level of social security in Kielce, in particular, the causes of large-scale poverty in the city and the unfavorable situation on the labor market, as well as measures that should be taken to counteract them and limit their effects. Methodology: The article presents selected aspects of social security and compares them with statistical data, indicating the current state and evolution of the situation in Kielce in the analyzed areas affecting the quality of life in the city. Main Findings: The article indicates the need to strengthen, at the local level, measures aimed at increasing the level of social security in Kielce. These should not only take the form of reducing the effects of poverty through social assistance measures, but above all of increasing the competitiveness of the local labor market, which would reverse negative trends, including reducing economic migration of young people and reducing the scale of depopulation in the region. Application of the study: The article presents recommendations for measures that should be taken in Kielce to reduce the unfavorable situation on the labor market and the high level of poverty, which would make it possible to improve the quality of life in the city and thus increase the level of social security. Originality of the study: The analysis of factors directly affecting the quality of life in the city combines theoretical elements with an analysis of the current situation, thus enabling an in-depth analysis of selected aspects of social security and providing guidance on the current and future situation in this area, the necessary measures to be taken, and the potential consequences of not taking them.