Employment in Romania: recent trends and characteristics

The labour market is an essential part of the economy, and some argue it might be a barometer of its health. The labour market is also a central figure of the Europe 2020 Strategy, the target for the employment rate for the 20-64 age group being set at 75% in the case of the EU and 70% in the case of Romania. Our research shows that Romania has the best chance of reaching this goal. At the regional level, the Nord-Est region stands out, with the highest employment rate for the entire period, while at the opposite pole we found the Centru region. At the same time, the unemployment rate in Romania was lower than the average of the European Union during 2007-2018. Unfortunately, the participation rate in active employment measures during 2007-2016 was downward, calling for measures in this area.