France unemployment rate rises to 8.1%, highest since 2021
France's unemployment rate climbed to 8.1% in the first quarter of 2026, the highest level since 2021. The figure crystallises the slowdown in the eurozone's second-largest economy and reopens debate over the European Central Bank's policy stance. Young people and industrial workers were the hardest-hit groups.
France's statistics institute Insee published first-quarter labour data showing an unemployment rate of 8.1%. That is the highest reading since the fourth quarter of 2021.
The main source of deterioration was job losses in industrial sectors weighted toward automotive and chemicals. Unemployment among 15-24 year olds rose above 20%. Weak manufacturing orders and spillovers from the slowdown in Germany have added pressure on French industry.
The data could strengthen voices inside the European Central Bank in favour of speeding up monetary easing. French 10-year yields edged lower in the bond market and the euro traded in a narrow range against the dollar. The government is expected to announce a targeted employment package in the coming months.
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