High Unemployment in Europe, Case Study Example

European unemployment is a hot topic. Use any Web browser to search for the words “European unemployment.” Just by scanning the headlines, see how many possible explanations you can list. How do they compare to the explanations reviewed in the chapter case study?

Unemployment in Europe has been a problem for many years, due in large part to consequences of a lengthy recession. However, transitions from existing industries to greater service-oriented organizations have been instrumental in contributing to high unemployment rates in many European countries. Under these circumstances, it is difficult for many former manufacturing workers to transition into service-oriented positions because they lack experience in these areas. In addition, many younger workers are unable to find jobs, particularly those with college educations. Therefore, the lack of available positions also contributes to higher unemployment throughout Europe. It is also evident that increased competition from other nations has crippled Europe’s economy in different ways and has shifted the paradigm toward lower production and fewer jobs, particularly in manufacturing. Finally, there has been a lack of focus on advancing existing systems to accommodate workers so that their retirement funds are secure and sufficient, which has led many workers down a negative path with little relief.