Employment Agency: Thuringian Labor Market Under Particular Pressure - Employment Agency: Thuringian Labor Market Under Particular Pressure
Thuringia’s unemployment rate has climbed to its highest level in seven years, with nearly 68,000 people out of work as of November 2025. The rise comes alongside a sharp increase in long-term joblessness, particularly in regions like Saxony-Anhalt and parts of Thuringia itself. Yet, despite the challenges, some sectors continue to struggle with severe labour shortages, leaving thousands of positions unfilled.
The latest figures show 67,984 unemployed people in Thuringia—up from 64,427 in November 2020 and the worst since 2018. Regional differences remain stark, with Eichsfeld reporting just 4% unemployment, while Erfurt’s rate sits at 10.2%. Nearly two-thirds of those without work lack the qualifications needed for available jobs, a problem worsened by long-term unemployment now nearing 40% in some areas.
Around 15,000 job vacancies exist across the state, with 80% demanding skilled professionals. Sectors like manufacturing, construction, and transport face persistent shortages, especially for dual-trained specialists. Rural districts in southern and eastern Thuringia, including Suhl, have been hit hardest, with firms warning of rising wage pressures due to demographic shifts and minimum-wage policies. Apprenticeship opportunities have grown, offering young people more options—but businesses struggle to fill these roles. Meanwhile, foreign workers have become crucial to employment growth since 2017, with over 80,000 now in socially insured jobs. Ukrainian refugees have also integrated well, with 70% entering employment since 2015 after completing language courses. Structural changes have further strained industries like automotive supply and energy-intensive sectors such as glass and ceramics. Employers in healthcare, pharmacies, and small retail firms also report ongoing difficulties in recruiting staff.
Thuringia’s labour market presents a mixed picture: record unemployment in some areas contrasts with thousands of unfilled skilled positions. The reliance on foreign workers and the mismatch between qualifications and job demands continue to shape the region’s economic challenges. Without intervention, wage pressures and shortages are likely to persist in key industries.
