Wiener Neustadt: Despite increasing unemployment

Von WOM

In Wiener Neustadt, the labor market is still changing in 2024. Despite an increase in unemployment, numerous places remain vacant, which indicates a complex interaction between demand and qualification. This becomes particularly clear if you look at the current data of the labor market service (AMS).

In October 2024, the AMS Wiener Neustadt published 1,123 vacancies. This may represent a slight decline compared to the previous year, but in the historical context shows a stable need for workers, especially for positions that require teaching or higher qualifications. Almost two thirds of the places offered require at least such an apprenticeship.

unemployed over 50

A closer look at the group of over 50-year unemployed reveals a complex picture. Despite their often sufficient qualifications, around 30 percent of this unemployed in Wiener Neustadt are excluded from the opportunities of the labor market. Mevlüt Kücükyasar, the head of the AMS, emphasizes that many of these older job seekers have extensive experience and networks, but are nevertheless affected by prejudices against older employees.

"A significant proportion of these people has health restrictions that make their return to the labor market difficult," explains Kücükyasar. In fact, over 45 percent of job seekers have health obstacles in this age group. The AMS therefore offers targeted support offers to improve their chances of employment.

prejudices and challenges

Prejudices of many employers play a significant role in the exclusion rate of older workers. A current investigation by the Sora Institute on behalf of the AMS has shown that applicants over 50 years, despite comparable qualifications, are less often invited to interviews. Prejudices about costs, susceptibility to illness and flexibility are still widespread.

Kücükaya's assessment forms the basis for a call to companies, questioning existing prejudices and recognizing older workers as a valuable resource. Demographic change requires more integration of these groups into the labor market, since companies can significantly benefit from their experience and stability.

In a changing labor market landscape, the opportunities for people over 50 are a pressing challenge that can only be mastered by cooperation between employers, employees and the AMS. A rethinking in personnel policy could alleviate the shortage of skilled workers in the long term and better use the skills of all generations, .