Unemployment in Colombia persists: more than 2.5 million affected.

Unemployment in Colombia continues to be a lingering concern that affects more than two and a half million people, according to recently published figures by the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE). With 10.3% of the active population unemployed, there is a slight reduction of 0.2% compared to the same month of the previous year. Despite this slight decrease, the Colombian economy continues to show signs of fragility and a slow recovery, generating uncertainty among analysts and experts. While there has been an increase of 463,000 new jobs in May compared to the previous year, with the construction sector performing well, the overall outlook is not entirely encouraging. Construction has been one of the sectors that has been able to significantly generate employment, with a growth of 0.7% and a positive impact on the economy. However, analysts warn that a full recovery cannot yet be claimed, but rather a process of landing from the economic crisis that has affected the country. Another aspect to highlight is the contribution of the 'arts, entertainment, and recreation' sector to job creation, representing an important percentage point in the labor market. Despite this contribution, concerns are raised about the influence of betting houses and online casinos on employment and growth data, as well as the need to address labor informality, which affects more than 55% of workers in the country. Labor informality and the predominance of microenterprises with limited capacity to offer formal and stable contracts are persistent challenges in the Colombian labor market. The labor reform proposed by the government has sparked controversy by focusing on union aspects in a context marked by 'semi-presentiality' and teleworking, without decisively addressing labor informality and precariousness that affect various sectors, such as agriculture. Although the total number of employed individuals has increased, experts warn that this growth is still not enough to significantly reduce the unemployment rate. It is projected that the year-end will not be catastrophic, but neither a cause for celebration, with the unemployment rate remaining around 10%. The gender gap is narrowing, partly due to the increased participation of women in the labor market and in sectors that are absorbing more employment, such as arts and recreational activities. A concerning aspect is the situation of the commerce sector, which has experienced a significant decline and a loss of 137,000 jobs in May. Commercial guilds have expressed their concerns about the difficult situation they are facing, highlighting the need for measures to boost economic activity and promote job creation in this sector, which is so important for overall employment in Colombia. In conclusion, the situation of unemployment in Colombia reflects a complex landscape that requires comprehensive and strategic measures to boost economic recovery and reduce labor informality. Despite some positive indicators, such as increased employment in key sectors like construction, a joint effort between the public and private sectors is necessary to generate sustainable job opportunities and promote inclusive growth that benefits the entire population.