Analysis of the Rural Labour Force in Romania’s South-East Region

This article analyses the structure, challenges, and development opportunities of the rural labour force in Romania’s South-East Development Region. Based on official statistical data provided by the National Institute of Statistics and relevant regional studies, the research highlights the dominance of the agricultural sector, the low level of formal qualifications among the rural workforce, and the persistence of informal employment. The study identifies significant disparities across counties, demographic imbalances caused by external and internal migration, and limited professional mobility due to inadequate infrastructure and lack of access to vocational training. The findings emphasise the need for integrated public policies focused on workforce development, improved transport connectivity, investment in rural entrepreneurship, and the expansion of training centres. The paper concludes that revitalising the rural labour market in the South-East Region requires both structural reforms and tailored interventions adapted to local conditions.