The number of people receiving unemployment benefits has risen above 200,000 for the first time since September 2021. In January, the UWV recorded 205,690 benefits, an increase driven mainly by the termination of temporary contracts that end annually.
Unemployment causes
Unemployment has been rising since 2023, and although winter usually brings a seasonal increase, the broader trend now points upward. West Brabant is among the regions showing a clear rise, with one of the strongest month‑to‑month increases nationwide. Long-term unemployment has remained fairly stable, with most long-term recipients aged 55 or older. The UWV also reports more company reorganisations, which have made it harder for older workers to find new jobs quickly. According to Rob Witjes, head of labour market information at UWV, employers have become more cautious about extending temporary contracts. So many younger workers are also affected.
Brainport region
At the same time, employers in Northeast Brabant continue to struggle to find staff. The latest Regio in Beeld 2025–2026 report shows that vacancies remain high and the labour market is still very competitive. Employers are encouraged to focus more on skills than on diplomas, which can help them reach a wider pool of potential employees. Educational qualification remains important for people seeking long-term job security in a rapidly changing labour market.
Key sectors such as healthcare, education, childcare, security, ICT, construction and technology face persistent staff shortages. These shortages lead to waiting lists, construction and energy project delays, and increased workloads. Some employers are turning to artificial intelligence as an alternative when they cannot find new employees.
Job growth in Northeast Brabant is expected to be modest in the coming years. Most people who can work already have a job, and the number of people available but not working has fallen sharply. This remaining group includes part-time workers seeking more hours, unemployed people who are immediately available, and people temporarily unable to work. In June 2025, 30,800 people in the region were registered as job seekers with the UWV.
The UWV stresses the importance of investing in skills. Continuous learning helps workers update skills, while employers who focus on skills rather than qualifications are more likely to find suitable staff. This also helps employees keep pace as tasks become more complex.
NEWS BRAINPORT
