The East Brandenburg labor market in December

Jochem Freyer, head of the East Brandenburg employment agencies, assesses the situation and developments: "The situation on the labor market in East Brandenburg is mixed, but better than the mood in the economy. The rise in unemployment figures in December was lower than usual. Looking back over the whole of last year, the East Brandenburg labor market held up well despite the economic weakness. Unemployment figures rose only moderately. Employment figures remained stable overall – the manufacturing industry lost ground, while service providers and the public sector gained. Many companies are currently sailing between storm and hope. Almost all of them are holding on to their employees, but are only hiring cautiously. As a result, unemployed people, career starters, migrants and people with disabilities are currently finding it particularly difficult to find a job. To give them a chance, we supported 500 wage subsidies and 1,300 training courses last year. 2026 will be a year of transition. I expect movement on the labor market to pick up again. The first investments from the special funds will trigger personnel requirements, AI is increasingly changing many job profiles, the wave of retirements continues to gather pace and some companies will run out of steam. We are ready to help anyone who needs support. In view of the increasing demographic gap, I am less concerned about the number of jobs, but rather because too few new jobs are being created. We need more private investment in future-oriented, scalable business models with well-paid jobs."

Marco Schulz, Managing Director of Jobcenter Märkisch-Oderland: "There are many challenges but also opportunities ahead of us all. I am particularly concerned about one current topic and would therefore like to address all those who are still at school and are waiting for their half-year reports or have already received them. This is the latest time to look at the application deadlines for an apprenticeship and to take a closer look at the topic of training. Our advisors at the Youth Employment Agency are happy to help young people set the course for their future. They are familiar with the local training market and know exactly whether there are apprenticeships available for their dream job. They can also advise on alternatives. Our beautiful Märkisch-Oderland would like to keep its young people. There are still many apprenticeships available and companies are desperately looking for well-trained specialists. Take a look for yourself at www.meinBeruf.de and then quickly make an appointment online."

Stefanie Dörfel, Managing Director of Jobcenter Frankfurt (Oder): "The start of the year is a crucial time for many young people to find their career direction and apply for an apprenticeship. That is why we are planning an action week for the Frankfurt (Oder) Youth Employment Agency for the winter holiday week from 2 to 7 February 2026. In addition to the career information center, we will also be visiting youth clubs and the Mikado meeting center during this week to meet young people in their environment and offer activities. Many companies start selecting their trainees early. Those who inform themselves now, prepare application documents and seek interviews will significantly improve their chances."