The ministry of labor in Gaza has warned that the ongoing genocidal war has inflicted severe damage on the labor market, with the unemployment rate rising to approximately 68 percent.
In a statement released on Thursday, the ministry added that about 74 percent of Gaza’s population has lost their jobs, leaving them either unemployed or outside the labor force, which underscores the scale of the economic and social fallout facing the territory.
“The war has inflicted damage not only on lives and infrastructure but also on the labor market, hitting workers, employers, businesses, graduates, and job seekers alike,” the ministry said.
The ministry stressed that reopening damaged businesses is key to labor market recovery, as they provide jobs, generate income, and drive economic activity.
The war has also dealt a severe blow to young people, with about 74 percent of those aged 15-29 now out of school, training programs, and the labor force, according to the ministry.
The ministry affirmed that it would continue its efforts to protect workers, regulate the labor market, expand training and employment programs, and work with partners to rebuild a labor market capable of withstanding future challenges.