Here are the key points about employees and the labor market in the region: - The labor force is approximately 700,000 people. Unemployment has been decreasing in recent years but remains above the national average. - The workforce has a relatively high level of education, with over 15% having a university degree. However, there is a mismatch between the skills of jobseekers and needs of employers. - Wages are lower than in more developed regions like Lisbon. This makes the region competitive for attracting investment but also contributes to brain drain as skilled workers seek higher paying jobs elsewhere. - An aging population is a challenge as it reduces the working age population. Attracting young skilled workers and families to