Unemployment in Catalonia has risen for the fourth month in a row, with the total number of unemployed individuals now standing at 338,246. This increase of 8,174 people, or 2.5%, in October has led to calls for a general strike aimed at demanding a shift in the region's economic model.
The rise in unemployment particularly affects young people and is attributed to instability in the services sector and the high seasonality of the economy. Despite reported job growth, over 330,000 individuals are still seeking employment, with nearly 150,000 having been out of work for more than two years.
The increase in unemployment is concentrated in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and agriculture, which has recently concluded its summer season. In terms of gender, male unemployment has risen by 4,662 men (3.3%), while female unemployment has increased by 3,512 women (1.9%). Additionally, unemployment among those aged over 45 has grown by 1,896 individuals (1.01%).
Youth unemployment has reached 26,869 individuals under the age of 25, marking an 11.9% increase compared to the previous month. The UGT (General Union of Workers) in Catalonia has raised concerns about the surge in unemployment among foreign nationals, which has increased by 6,573 people (8.3%) in the last month.
The union is calling for the implementation of public policies to address this situation, including more qualified employment services and active employment policies tailored to the needs of the most vulnerable groups.
In response to the rising unemployment, UGT Catalonia has organised a mass mobilisation for a general strike on 11 November and has urged voters to express their opposition to the far-right and the erosion of labour rights in the upcoming elections on 29 November.
