Arbeidsmarkedstiltak

Arbeidsmarkedstiltak, often translated as labor market measures or active labor market policies, are a set of instruments used by governments and public employment services to influence the functioning of the labor market. The primary goal is to reduce unemployment, improve the employability of individuals, and ensure a better match between job seekers and available vacancies. These measures are often implemented during periods of economic downturn or when facing structural changes in the economy that lead to increased unemployment.

The range of arbeidsmarkedstiltak is broad and can include several types of interventions. Subsidized employment schemes, where employers receive financial assistance to hire individuals who might otherwise face difficulties finding work, are a common example. Training programs and vocational education are also central, aiming to equip job seekers with skills that are in demand by employers. Furthermore, job search assistance, including counseling, guidance, and support in writing applications and preparing for interviews, plays a crucial role. Other measures may involve support for entrepreneurship, relocation assistance for those willing to move for work, and programs specifically targeting vulnerable groups such as youth, older workers, or individuals with disabilities. The effectiveness of these measures is a subject of ongoing debate and research, with outcomes often depending on the specific design of the program, the economic context, and the target group.