In August the Adem employment agency listed 9,914 open positions, which is a new record high. Library picture: Matic Zorman / Maison Moderne

In August the Adem employment agency listed 9,914 open positions, which is a new record high. Library picture: Matic Zorman / Maison Moderne

There were 684 fewer jobseekers in Luxembourg in August 2021 compared to the previous month and 13% fewer than in August 2020, according to the country’s employment development agency.

A total of 16,123 residents of the grand duchy were registered at Luxembourg’s employment development agency, Adem, as of 31 August 2021. The 13% decrease compared to the same time last year can be explained by the fact that back then the effects of the pandemic on the job market could still be felt. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate calculated by Statec, Luxembourg’s statistics bureau, now stands at 5.5% and is increasingly close to its pre-crisis level.

However, what Adem refers to as long term unemployment is on the rise. Jobseekers registered for more than 12 months fall into that bracket. They now represent 52% of those looking for employment, which is the highest it has ever been.

New applicants continue to arrive at Adem and in August of this year, 2,082 residents signed up at the agency. In 2020, that number was 248 higher, which constitutes a 10.6% decrease. In addition, 16.7% fewer people receive benefits than a year ago.

During August 2021 employers in Luxembourg declared 3,745 vacant posts to Adem, which marks an increase of 68.7% compared to this time last year.  In August the employment agency listed 9,914 open positions which was a new record high.