Labor trends show rising job instability in Belgium and workplace accidents in Italy

In Belgium, a study by consultancy HR Acerta reveals a growing trend of short-term employment among young workers. Data from 390,000 workers shows that permanent contracts are increasingly ending within the first 12 months, particularly for those under 25. The number of permanent contracts ending within the first year has risen by 16 percent. Notably, the rate of terminations within the first six months for workers under 25 rose from 8.4 percent in 2024 to 14.12 percent last year. This shift follows legislative changes effective August 1, which reduced notice periods to one week during the first six months of employment.

In Italy, workplace accident statistics show a concerning increase. During the first half of 2026, over 2,300 workplace and commuting accidents were recorded, marking an 8.3 percent increase compared to the previous year. Total accident reports rose by 4.7 percent, with 342 deaths reported during the period. In the Piacenza region, accidents increased by 8.3 percent, with the highest numbers occurring in industry and services. Additionally, reported occupational diseases saw a 13.1 percent increase.