Active labour market policies in Spain: quantitative analysis with special reference to youth unemployment and long-term unemployment

Abstract

This article provides a quantitative analysis of active labour market policies in Spain, with particular focus on young people and the long-term unemployed. Drawing on data from the Spanish Labour Force Survey (EPA), Eurostat, the OECD and the Spanish Public Employment Services, it examines labour market developments, public expenditure on active labour market policies and the human resources available within public employment services. The findings show that, despite a significant reduction in unemployment over the last decade, Spain continues to record youth and long-term unemployment rates above the European Union average. Public expenditure on active labour market policies has increased, although important shortcomings remain in the implementation of training programmes. The study also identifies staffing shortages and territorial disparities within employment services. It concludes that improving employability requires strengthening public employment services, increasing the implementation of training measures and targeting the groups most affected by unemployment.