Daftarsbmptn.com – As 2026 approaches, the national employment situation is once again facing serious challenges. Waves of layoffs have occurred across various industrial sectors, from manufacturing and technology to retail and digital media. This situation places the younger generation as the most vulnerable group, amidst an economy that has not yet fully recovered, increasingly fierce job competition, and a rising cost of living.
Data from various employment reports shows that thousands of workers have lost their jobs since January. Companies are implementing downsizing measures due to global economic pressures, declining purchasing power, and shifts in business strategies based on digitalization and automation. Ironically, the majority of affected workers are in the productive age group of 20–35, including recent graduates and employees with less than five years of service.
For the younger generation, layoffs at the beginning of the year are not just a loss of income, but also a mental and psychological blow. Many are just starting to build their careers, paying off mortgages, or supporting their families. When income stops, life pressures increase as the prices of basic necessities like food, transportation, and housing continue to rise.
On the other hand, the job market is currently increasingly competitive. Available job openings are not commensurate with the number of job seekers. Companies tend to seek workers with multi-skills, extensive experience, and high adaptability. This forces the younger generation to compete not only with fellow new job seekers but also with experienced workers who have also been affected by layoffs.
This phenomenon also demonstrates changing work patterns. Many companies are reducing the recruitment of permanent employees and preferring short-term contracts, freelance work, or project-based employment. This situation creates long-term uncertainty for young workers, due to the lack of income security and social protection.
Economic pressures are exacerbated by the rising cost of living in urban areas. Rental prices, food needs, and transportation costs continue to rise, while wages have not seen significant increases. For young workers still at entry-level salaries, this situation forces them to reduce expenses, postpone life plans, and even become dependent on family again.
Labor experts assess the surge in layoffs at the beginning of the year as an important signal for the government and industry players. Policies are needed that can create new jobs, strengthen the small and medium-sized business sector, and encourage retraining (reskilling) for young workers. Without concrete steps, the risk of rising educated unemployment and social inequality will only increase.
Amidst this difficult situation, the younger generation is being challenged to be more adaptive. Many are seeking opportunities in the digital economy, self-employment, and even remote work across borders. However, not everyone has the access, capital, and skills to transition quickly.
The surge in layoffs at the beginning of the year is a reminder that economic and employment stability remains fragile. For the younger generation, survival is not only about finding new jobs, but also about building mental resilience, improving skills, and navigating the future amidst increasingly complex uncertainties.