The Struggles of Young People in Finding Employment

erikabassovisionfa
Jul 22
4 min read

Updated: Sep 17

Author: Erika Basso

Finding a job in Europe can be challenging, and the difficulty varies by country, sector and level of professional qualification. In general, countries such as Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands and Scandinavia offer good opportunities, especially in technology, engineering, health and finance.

However, competition can be high, and knowledge of the local language is often a key factor.

The difficulties of finding Employment

Destination country: Some countries have more dynamic labour markets and offer more opportunities than others. For example, Germany, with its strong economy and large firms, can offer more job opportunities than countries with higher unemployment rates.

Sector: High-demand sectors, such as IT, engineering and healthcare, tend to have more open positions while other sectors may be more competitive.

Level of qualification: Entry-level positions may be easier to find, but competition may be higher. Specialist or managerial positions may require specific skills and years of experience.

Knowledge of the language: Knowledge of the local language is often a prerequisite, especially for jobs that require interaction with clients or colleagues.

Professional experience: Work experience in the sector of interest can make a difference in a job search.

Quality of life: Some countries offer a better work-life balance, which can influence the choice of a candidate.

5 European countries where it is easier to find work:

5 - London, United Kingdom

London is the main destination for job seekers abroad. More and more young people are fascinated by this city and the many opportunities it offers. However, it should be noted that competition is high in this country, and the requirements for well-qualified jobs are above average. Having said that, those who aspire to positions of importance are better off turning their attention elsewhere.

Unemployment rate 9.1%

Most popular jobs web designer, programmer, pizzaiolo, chef, interpreter, tourist guide, call center operator, import export, engineer, teacher.

4 - Brussels, Belgium

The economy of this northern European country is one of the best in the old continent. Here, the level of quality of life is quite high, but among the main requirements required to work there is knowledge of French and English .This is a destination suitable for those who have no problems with languages.

Unemployment rate 7.6%

Most sought-after professions: psychologist, architect, doctor, engineer, financial analyst.

3 - Munich, Germany

This country offers many job opportunities, and it is not so difficult to settle in.

Unemployment rate 2.6%

Most requested occupations: doctor, nurse, social health worker, engineer, IT expert, mechanic, electrician, driver (truck and bus), cook, waiter.

2 - Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the city with the best quality of life in the world. This country is distinguished by the quality of services and infrastructure, attention to health and family, air pollution and public transport network, but especially for the excellent job opportunities it offers its citizens.

Unemployment rate 5%

Most demanded occupations: cook, waiter, tour guide, pastry chef, ice cream maker, biotechnology engineer, and IT expert.

1 - Zurich, Switzerland

In the first place, we found Switzerland, which offers the absolute best opportunities for an Italian job seeker. More than 500,000 Swiss residents are descendants of our countrymen.

The country has a very low unemployment rate, presenting an economic well-being like few in Europe. In addition, thanks to the agreement signed in 1999 between Switzerland and the European Union, citizens of both sides benefit from the right of free movement between their respective territories.

Unemployment rate 3.5%

Most demanded occupations: programmer, specialised assistance staff, carpenter, civil engineer, mechanic, bricklayer.

Current labour market situation

General rate and youth rate: In the European Union (EU) in May 2025, the overall unemployment rate was 5.9%, stable compared to April . In the euro area, the rate was 6.3%, up slightly from 6.2% in April but still down on the previous year.

For youth (under 25), in May 2025, the unemployment rate was 14.8% in the EU and 14.4% in the euro area.

Differences between countries

The highest rates among young people are in Spain (26%), Romania (26.3%), Greece (25%) and Sweden (23-24%).

Lowest in Germany (6.5-6.8 %), Malta (7.2 %) and the Netherlands (8.8 %).

Active employment policies

The EU Youth Guarantee obliges Member States to offer employment, traineeships, training or apprenticeships to people under 25 within four months of leaving school or losing their job.

Since 2014, around 3.5 million young people have taken part in the programme each year

National programmes, such as those in the Nordic countries, combine training, compulsory traineeships and individualised guidance.

Tips for finding work in Europe:

Targeted research: Identify countries and sectors offering the greatest opportunities and tailor your application to specific needs.

Networking: Attend industry events, connect with professionals and use social media to expand your network.

Language training: Invest in language training to improve your language skills and increase your chances of finding a job.

Curriculum update: Create an effective resume that highlights your skills and experience, adapting it to local regulations.
Preparation for the interview: Train in typical interview questions and prepare for any aptitude tests or practical tests.