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Germany Faces 12-Year High Unemployment Amid Economic Struggles

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Germany's unemployment rose to a 12-year high of over 3 million, with 177,000 more jobless in January and a 6.6% rate.
The government lowered growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027 as the economy risks a third year of near-zero growth.
Katherina Reiche, Germany's Economy Minister, called for new growth strategies as export strengths falter amid high energy costs and reduced Russian gas imports.

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Story summary

Germany's unemployment rose to a 12-year high of over 3 million, with 177,000 more jobless in January and a 6.6% rate.
The government lowered growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027 as the economy risks a third year of near-zero growth.
Katherina Reiche, Germany's Economy Minister, called for new growth strategies as export strengths falter amid high energy costs and reduced Russian gas imports.