Germany’s Unemployed Population Hits 3.06 Million in August
Official data show unemployment rising by 54,000 in August, with the jobless rate increasing to 6.5% amid continued economic weakness.
- Unemployment Rises to 3.06 Million
- Jobless Rate Hits 6.5%
- German Labour Market Remains Weak
Germany’s unemployment figure has risen above the three-million mark, with official data showing continued weakness in the country’s labour market despite signs of improving economic activity.
The number of unemployed people increased by 54,000 from July and 36,000 compared with August last year, reaching 3.061 million, according to the Federal Employment Agency.
The unemployment rate also climbed to 6.5%, up from 6.4% in July.
Federal Employment Agency Chairwoman Andrea Nahles said the labour market showed little momentum in August beyond normal seasonal effects.
Unemployment had already crossed the three-million threshold in July for the first time since April, partly due to the beginning of the summer holiday season.
Economists attributed the continued rise partly to seasonal factors and Germany’s ongoing economic weakness. However, recent signs of improved economic activity could provide some support for the labour market in the coming months.
