European Commission warns up to 560,000 EU jobs threatened by energy costs and green transition

The European Commission warned that high energy prices, industrial restructuring and the green transition could endanger up to 560,000 jobs across the European Union by 2026. The most exposed sectors are construction, metallurgy, chemicals and transport, while automotive, battery, solar and steel industries also face substantial job risks.

Unemployment is expected to rise to 6% in 2026 and 2027, higher than earlier forecasts of 5.8‑5.9%. Public debt ratios are projected to grow from 3.1% of GDP in 2025 to 3.6% in 2027. The Commission’s spring European Semester package stresses investment in human capital, skills training and STEM education. Roxana Minzatu, Executive Vice‑President for Social Rights and Skills, said, “Investing in people and the skills they acquire is the key strategy to boost Europe’s competitiveness.”