Wels in a state of emergency: unemployment continues to rise

Wels in a state of emergency: unemployment continues to rise

CATFISH.The labor market in the Wels region continues to show worrying trends. At the end of September 2023, a total of 4,332 people were registered as unemployed in the city and the surrounding area. Compared to the previous year, this represents an increase of 720 people.

Although the growth rate in unemployment is slightly lower compared to previous months, the overall development is negative. In recent months, increases of more than 20 percent have been recorded in some cases. In September the increase was 19.9 percent. Othmar Kraml, the head of the AMS Wels, is pessimistic and notes: “I don’t expect any improvement before spring next year.” This statement highlights the ongoing challenges facing the local labor market.

Special groups affected

The rise in unemployment is particularly affecting certain groups more severely. Men, people over 50 and foreigners are particularly affected. In addition, certain sectors such as metal/electrical, trade and technicians are showing a significant increase in unemployment. There is also a significant increase in unemployment in the unskilled professions.

Additionally, access to job vacancies fell sharply in September with only 893 positions available. For comparison: In the same month last year there were 178 more jobs. Given the current situation, there is also a decline of 33.7 percent in vacancies. This suggests that there are fewer opportunities available for job seekers.

Although the mood is largely negative, the labor market is not without positive aspects. Kraml mentions that there were 903 job starts last month, an increase of 2.3 percent compared to the previous year. These figures show that despite the overall gloomy mood, employment opportunities continue to arise.