At the end of March, the number of unemployed individuals rose to two million seven hundred eighty-nine thousand two hundred, marking the highest figure since the first quarter of twenty twenty-four. The number of employed individuals declined to twenty-one million seven hundred sixty-five thousand four hundred, down from the record of twenty-one point eight million employed in the previous two quarters. However, seasonally adjusted figures revealed that employment surpassed twenty-two million for the first time, increasing by one hundred fifty-nine thousand seven hundred in the first quarter, reflecting a growth rate of zero point seventy-three percent.

In the past year, the unemployment rate has decreased by one hundred eighty-eight thousand seven hundred people, equating to a six point three percent decline, with five hundred fifteen thousand jobs created. The activity rate also saw a slight increase to fifty-eight point fifty-seven percent, bringing the total number of active individuals to twenty-four million six hundred thousand. The Ministry of Economy reported this trend as a sign of growing confidence in the labour market.

The report indicated that temporary employment was the most affected, with a notable decline occurring in the public sector, which lost ninety-two thousand two hundred jobs. Overall, the unemployment figures for both men and women showed an increase, with women experiencing a faster rise in unemployment compared to men. In contrast, the number of part-time workers increased slightly, suggesting a shift in employment patterns during the quarter.

Despite the overall decline in employment numbers, the total hours worked increased, signalling a potential rise in productivity among those employed. Looking ahead, the future of the labour market remains a focus as adjustments are made in the public and private sectors.