The unemployment rate in Latvia has reached 5.2% by the end of January 2026, marking an increase of 0.2 percentage points compared to the previous month. According to the National Employment Agency (NVA), this reflects a growing trend in unemployment with a total of 45,729 registered unemployed individuals, an increase of 2,057 from the previous month’s count of 43,672. This rising number indicates potential concerns regarding the economic stability and job market in the country.

Regionally, unemployment rates vary significantly across Latvia. The lowest rate is found in the capital, Riga, where it stands at 3.9%, which is an increase of 0.2 percentage points from the month prior. On the other end of the spectrum, the Latgale region has the highest unemployment rate at 10.5%, also reflecting a rise of 0.4 percentage points. Other regions, including Kurzeme and Zemgale, have also experienced increases, further emphasizing regional disparities in employment opportunities and economic challenges that different areas face.

The rise in unemployment rates is a critical indicator of economic health and may signal the need for policy adjustments to boost job creation and support for the unemployed. As the labor market faces these challenges, continuous monitoring and targeted interventions may be required to prevent further economic decline and assist regions with higher unemployment. Understanding these trends will be crucial for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance job stability and economic recovery in Latvia.