The labor market in the regions is undergoing significant changes driven by the shifting values of the younger generation and economic challenges. While employers are looking for disciplined and experienced workers, young people are striving for flexibility, meaningful work, and wages that would allow them not only to survive but also to enjoy life.
A study conducted by regional publications revealed a multi-layered picture: from successful career stories and innovative initiatives of local governments to unpleasant conclusions about a lack of experience and a mismatch with labor market requirements.
The newspaper "Alūksnes un Malienas Ziņas" writes that job searching for young people is often the first step towards independence; however, opportunities do not always align with desires and chosen professions. Limited job offers, seasonal work, and issues related to wages force young people to move to larger cities or leave the country. Nevertheless, the region has plenty of employment opportunities for youth.
Evita Aploka, a representative of the Alūksne municipality, shares that many young people work in municipal institutions—at least 18 individuals under the age of 26 are employed in the fields of information technology, culture, customer service, communication, and education. Overall, young people are motivated, creative, and well-versed in the latest trends. Their advantages include proficiency in technology and foreign languages, as well as higher productivity. However, there is a risk that a young person may quickly change priorities and not continue employment relationships.
The Gulbene region newspaper "Dzirkstele" notes that young people are no longer willing to work for decades in one place for minimum wage. Olga Voicisha, an employee of the Balvi branch of the State Employment Agency (SEA), states that young people in Gulbene are seeking financially stable jobs with flexible schedules or remote work opportunities.
The newspaper "Staburags" reports that in the Aizkraukle region, 65% of registered young unemployed individuals have only primary or secondary education, which significantly hinders their ability to find work. Representatives of the SEA cite insufficient skills among youth, lack of motivation, and unrealistic expectations as the main obstacles. A significant problem is also the lack of job opportunities near their place of residence, especially in rural areas and small municipalities.
