The European Commission estimates that up to 560,000 jobs may be at risk, Politico reports. The greatest risks are registered in construction, metallurgy, chemical industry and transportation sector – the sectors most sensitive to cost growth and structural changes.
The forecast for unemployment in the EU has also been revised. If earlier it was expected that in 2026 the indicator will amount to 5.9%, and in 2027 it will decrease to 5.8%, now the European Commission forecasts the unemployment rate at 6% in both years.
European Commission Vice President for Social Rights, Skills, Quality Jobs and Readiness Roxana Mynzatu told Politico that Europe’s competitiveness cannot be built on technology and capital alone. People, their skills and opportunities for development are key, she said.
Separately, the European Commission draws attention to the shortage of qualified personnel in Europe. According to the latest data, 68% of medium-sized companies reported a skills shortage in 2023, and in 2024 already 77% of firms cited this as a barrier to investment. In this regard, the EU recommendations are planned to include a focus on investment in education, vocational training and retraining of workers.
Against the backdrop of these risks, European politicians continue to warn of structural problems in the economy. Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron stated the need to accelerate reforms and strengthen the competitiveness of the EU, warning of growing pressure from the U.S. and China.
