From Netherlands to Turkey: EU countries with high employment rates

The European Union's labor market demonstrated remarkable resilience in 2024, achieving a record employment rate of 75.8% among individuals aged 20 to 64. This figure represents the highest level recorded since the EU began tracking data in 2009. Further underscoring the bloc's economic strength, the OECD reported that the EU unemployment rate dropped to a historic low of 5.7% in February 2025.

Several member states are noted for their exceptional performance. The Netherlands benefits from a flexible labor market and widespread part-time employment, particularly among women. Malta has emerged as a strong performer, driven by growth in services, tourism, and foreign investment. Czechia's high employment rate is attributed to its robust manufacturing sector, low unemployment, and close integration into European supply chains.

Germany continues to leverage its industrial base, export-oriented economy, and a dual vocational education system that facilitates the transition from training to employment for young people. Denmark's success is linked to a flexible labor market combined with strong social protection, enabling workers to move between jobs while maintaining a safety net. Sweden's labor market thrives on high female participation, strong educational systems, and policies promoting gender equality, with innovation and technology also playing key roles in job creation.

Austria combines a productive industrial economy with comprehensive social protection and apprenticeship programs, contributing to solid employment and relatively low youth unemployment. Ireland has attracted substantial foreign investment, especially in technology and pharmaceuticals, supported by economic growth and a young population. Poland has developed one of Eastern Europe's more robust labor markets through manufacturing, services, and economic reforms. Slovakia's employment is largely driven by its automotive industry and foreign investment, concentrated in urban centers. Slovenia's diversified economy and skilled workforce sustain employment despite its small population. Portugal's recovery from its financial crisis is supported by tourism, exports, and technology companies, while Lithuania and Latvia have seen employment boosted by economic growth, EU integration, and investments in technology and infrastructure.