Jobless total up in Slovenia
Slovenia's jobless total stood at 46,877 at the end of November, an increase of 0.5% compared to the month before, and a drop of 3.1% year-on-year, the Employment Service reported on Wednesday, CE Report quotes STA.
The slight monthly increase in unemployment is attributed to seasonal factors, particularly in sectors like agriculture, construction, and tourism, which typically see reduced activity during the colder months. Despite this uptick, the year-on-year decline reflects an overall improvement in Slovenia's labor market, driven by economic recovery and steady job creation in key industries.
Breaking down the figures, the Employment Service highlighted that the service sector remains the largest employer, while manufacturing and IT continue to show robust demand for skilled workers. However, challenges persist in addressing labor shortages in highly specialized fields, such as engineering and healthcare.
Youth unemployment, a key concern for policymakers, saw a slight increase in November but remains lower than the same period last year. The government has announced additional measures aimed at upskilling young workers, including training programs and incentives for businesses to hire recent graduates.
Meanwhile, the number of long-term unemployed individuals—those out of work for more than 12 months—also decreased year-on-year. Programs targeting this group, including retraining initiatives and subsidized employment, are credited for the decline.
Minister of Labor Luka Mesec commented on the report, stating, "While the slight monthly rise in unemployment was expected due to seasonal trends, the overall year-on-year improvement is encouraging. Our focus remains on fostering an inclusive labor market and ensuring that every Slovenian has access to meaningful employment opportunities."
Looking ahead, analysts predict that unemployment rates may remain stable during the winter months, with potential declines in the spring as seasonal employment picks up. However, the broader economic environment, influenced by global uncertainty and inflationary pressures, could impact future labor market trends.
The Employment Service plans to publish its next report in early 2024, which will provide a clearer picture of how these trends develop over the coming months.
