Canadian labour market struggles as youth and newcomers face barriers

Canadian labour market struggles as youth and newcomers face barriers

Canada’s labour market has experienced a slowdown, with youth and newcomers being disproportionately affected. While the national economy shows resilience, these groups face significant hurdles in securing stable employment. Youth often struggle due to a lack of experience and competition in entry-level roles, while newcomers confront challenges such as foreign credential recognition and limited professional networks.

For youth, underemployment in part-time or temporary roles continues to be an issue, with many unable to find positions aligned with their education and skills. This mismatch between qualifications and job availability forces many into roles unrelated to their training, limiting their ability to gain relevant experience and build meaningful careers.

Newcomers, particularly those from international backgrounds, find it difficult to navigate the Canadian job market. Despite bringing valuable skills and qualifications, many employers hesitate to hire candidates with foreign experience, making it harder for newcomers to establish themselves in the workforce. Language barriers, lack of local work history, and limited understanding of Canadian workplace culture further complicate their job search.

The struggle for both youth and newcomers is exacerbated by broader economic uncertainties and fluctuating demand across industries. As sectors like technology and healthcare continue to grow, there is still a mismatch between available jobs and the qualifications of those seeking work.

To address these challenges, targeted policies are needed to support the integration of newcomers into the workforce, including credential recognition and mentorship programs. For youth, initiatives that provide internships, apprenticeships, and pathways to full-time employment can help bridge the gap between education and the labour market. By focusing on these vulnerable groups, Canada can better ensure that its workforce remains diverse, skilled, and well-prepared for the future.