Youth Unemployment Rises in Switzerland as Recent graduates Struggle to Find work
Zurich, Switzerland – A surge in youth unemployment is impacting Switzerland, with 2073 freshly trained learners registered as unemployed in August 2025, representing 1.6 percent of all unemployed individuals, according to the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (Seco). This marks a nearly 20 percent increase in unemployment among 15 to 24 year olds compared to July.
The rise in unemployment typically peaks in August as numerous learners complete their training, Seco explains.Though, the experiences of young women like Jessica, Anna, adn Sina illustrate the challenges even proactive job seekers face in securing employment.
Sina C., who uses the tiktok handle @Cresue25, currently works temporary positions in nursing or the kitchen while living in a supervised residential facility.”The unsuccessful search made me depressed. I thought all the time that I was to blame myself,” she shared. Sina hopes to return to work soon, but feels she needs time to process her recent experiences.
The increase in youth unemployment is being felt across most cantons and industries. Seco points to instruments like internships, exercise companies, and tailored coaching programs as resources to help young people enter the workforce. Despite thes efforts, the stories of Jessica, Anna, and Sina demonstrate that completing training doesn’t guarantee a job.
