Varying levels of unemployment are being seen across the European Union (EU), offering opportunities for labor migration.

This is according to the EU's commissioner for employment, social affairs and inclusion, who has noted the ability of those seeking jobs to move freely around the trading bloc may assist with economic recovery over the coming years.

Laszlo Andor explained: "Member states have been differently affected by the crisis and are now at different stages in their recovery process."

Speaking in Vienna at a conference on the free movement of workers, he stated some countries are witnessing historically high levels of unemployment, while others are witnessing record lows.

As demand for workers rises, he pointed out that increased labor mobility is likely to continue to have a positive impact, pushing up wages and alleviating skills shortages.

From May 1st 2011, a seven-year transitional period will come to an end, lifting all restrictions to free movement of workers from eight member states in central and eastern Europe.

Posted by Alex Donnell