Long-term unemployment among older workers is a challenge across Europe, prompting various national policy responses.
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Lithuanian data shows a growing number of long-term unemployed seniors facing challenges, despite efforts across the EU to keep older workers active. In the first half of this year, long-term unemployed individuals over 50 accounted for over half of those registered with the Employment Service, with the highest concentration in Vilnius and Kaunas. The Lithuanian Ministry of Social Security and Labour states that the Labour Code prohibits age discrimination and mandates employers to provide opportunities for training and safe working environments, offering retirement guarantees such as severance pay and longer notice periods. A 2023 EU labour force survey indicated that many people retire or stop working within six months of receiving their first pension, with only 13% continuing to work, and many of those who do face changes in working conditions. Various European countries are implementing measures to encourage older workers to remain economically active. Spain has updated its partial pension system to allow earlier access and increased active pension accessibility. Austria is investing heavily in increasing employment for older individuals, planning to introduce a partial pension system and considering incentives/penalties for employers. France has raised its statutory retirement age to 64, while also allowing phased retirement and work after retirement. In Greece, efforts to combat illegal employment among seniors have involved reforms, though the effectiveness of these measures is questioned.
