MPs in the Chamber’s labour commission on Wednesday discussed the state of the Luxembourg job market, with the Minister of Labour, Georges Mischo, and the director of the National Employment Agency (ADEM), Isabelle Schlesser, updating lawmakers about recent developments.
In just one year, unemployment has risen by 15.5%, affecting 18.000 individuals. An employment growth of 1.3% is anticipated for 2024, but this is not enough to curb unemployment.
Various sectors, including IT, construction, and finance, are among the hardest hit. The IT sector in particular is experiencing a shortage of workforce despite the current situation. Schlesser notes that events will be analysed in more detail to address the specific issues contributing to this mismatch between job supply and demand.
There is, nevertheless, a positive aspect to highlight. Since September, the employment process for asylum seekers has been simplified, resulting in a 70% increase in their employment.
A streamlined procedure is in place for 15 professions experiencing significant shortages, although the hospitality sector is currently not included. However, a new list of professions facing severe shortages is expected to be released in March, potentially encompassing additional sectors.
