The unemployment rate in the Czech Republic ticked higher at the start of the year, reaching 5.1% in January 2026, up from 4.8% in December 2025. The latest figure, updated on 09 February 2026, marks a 0.3 percentage point increase month-on-month.
The rise suggests a softening in labour market conditions after the year-end period, when seasonal hiring typically supports employment. With unemployment now above its December level, investors and policymakers will be watching upcoming data closely for signs of whether this reflects a temporary seasonal adjustment or the beginning of a more persistent trend in the Czech labour market.