Unemployment barely moves in December
December’s seasonally adjusted unemployment figures in Denmark show a minimal increase to 88,400 individuals, a mere 100 person rise from November, leaving the rate unchanged at 2.9%. An earlier estimate had predicted an increase of 2,300 unemployed individuals, which did not materialize. Over 2024, unemployment only increased by 1,900, while employment grew by approximately 29,000. The trade union 3F has noted a decline in its members’ unemployment since the summer, partly due to growth in the industry and construction sectors. 3F’s labor market economist Jesper Grunnet-Lauridsen attributes employment growth to seniors staying in the labor market and foreign workers’ contributions. Forecasts for 2025 suggest unemployment will remain low, around 3%, with employers’ main issue being labor shortage. The unexpected figures were partly a result of seasonal adjustment not accounting for new holiday patterns established by the 2021 holiday law.