40,000 Moldovans are looking for a job. Expert: Informal emloyment distorts official figures
In the Republic of Moldova, around 40,000 people are searching for jobs, yet the official unemployment rate is under 4%, which is below the European average. However, experts note that statistical data may not accurately represent the real situation, largely due to the high prevalence of informal work. Additionally, not all individuals who are unemployed have registered with the National Employment Agency (ANEFA) to get official unemployment status.
Over 8,100 job vacancies are currently listed on the National Employment Agency's website, with more than half located in the Chisinau municipality. The majority of these opportunities are available for individuals with a secondary vocational education or for unskilled workers, making up approximately 73% of the vacancies.
Requests for retraining are on the rise, largely because employers are seeking different skill sets in the labor market, particularly digital knowledge, according to social expert Mariana Iațco from Moldova 1 TV.
The labor market increasingly demands retraining and lifelong learning. Recent data indicates that the number of individuals interested in reconversion programs is growing, as employers require enhanced skills, including digital literacy, foreign language proficiency, and computer skills. This trend highlights the necessity for those over 35 or 40 years old to adapt to the ongoing changes in the job market and the evolving requirements from employers.
In the past five years, the unemployment rate in the Republic of Moldova has remained stable, fluctuating between 3% and 6%, which is notably lower than the European average. However, Iațco pointed out that this figure does not accurately reflect the true situation. Many Moldovans who are unemployed do not register with the territorial offices of the ANOFM, and there is a significant prevalence of informal work. She emphasized that authorities must enhance their efforts to help individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds find employment.
The National Employment Agency reports that last year, with the support of its territorial subdivisions, 16,000 people secured jobs, including approximately 7,000 unemployed individuals. This figure is double that of 2022, during which 8,400 people were hired, and represents a 33% increase compared to 2023.