EU eases movement of workers as unemployment hits new low

European employers and recruiters keenly aware of the challenges in sourcing new talent to fill current vacancies

The European Commission is easing restrictions on the movement of EU and non-EU workers moving residence to find work within member states. The latest EU figures show employment levels rising, unemployment falling and GDP rising, all positive, but also trends which create challenges for employers seeking to recruit new talent.

Sourcing talent from within Europe is becoming increasingly difficult for employers, with unemployment in the EU27 at a record low of 5.9% in August 2023.

This EU-wide average figure is down from 6.0% in July 2023, and from 6.1% in August 2022. The latest figures published by Eurostat, the EU's statistical body, also show that figures for gross domestic product (GDP) across the EU and EU area are growing, while overall employment is exceeding 75% for the bloc.