Fact Check: "B.C. is the only province where youth employment has not recovered since COVID-19."
What We Know
The claim that British Columbia (B.C.) is the only province in Canada where youth employment has not recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic is supported by several sources. According to a report from the British Columbia Chamber of Commerce, B.C. is indeed the only province that has recorded a negative growth rate in youth employment from 2019 to 2024, while other provinces have seen recovery in this demographic (B.C. Youth Hit Hardest by Labour Market Weakness). The report highlights that youth employment among 15–24-year-olds in B.C. is approximately 21% below the pre-pandemic trend, with a significant gap of 94,000 jobs compared to expected levels based on pre-pandemic growth trajectories (B.C. Youth Hit Hardest by Labour Market Weakness).
Additionally, the Labour Market Statistics from the Province of British Columbia indicate that while overall employment in the province has seen some recovery, the youth segment remains particularly vulnerable (Labour Market Statistics - Province of British Columbia). This is further corroborated by Statistics Canada data, which shows that youth unemployment in B.C. has increased significantly, reaching 16.6% in May 2025, the highest rate among provinces (B.C. Youth Hit Hardest by Labour Market Weakness).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust, primarily sourced from credible institutions such as the British Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Statistics Canada. The data indicates that while B.C. has made gains in overall employment, the youth demographic has not experienced similar recovery. The assertion that B.C. is the only province with a negative growth rate in youth employment is particularly significant, as it highlights a unique challenge faced by young workers in the province (B.C. Youth Hit Hardest by Labour Market Weakness).
Moreover, the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, Diana Gibson, acknowledged the challenges in the labour market but did not specifically address the youth employment recovery in her statements, which focused more on overall job creation and economic development (Minister's statement on June Labour Force Survey results). This omission suggests that while the government is aware of general employment trends, the specific plight of youth employment may not be receiving the same level of attention.
The reliability of the sources is high, as they are based on official statistics and reports from recognized organizations. However, it is essential to consider that the framing of the issue may vary between sources, with some emphasizing overall economic recovery while downplaying the youth segment's struggles.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that B.C. is the only province where youth employment has not recovered since COVID-19 is supported by credible data and analyses. The evidence clearly shows that youth employment in B.C. remains significantly below pre-pandemic levels, marking it as a unique case among Canadian provinces. The ongoing challenges faced by young workers in B.C. highlight a critical area of concern that requires targeted policy interventions.
Sources
- Labour Market Statistics - Province of British Columbia
- Minister's statement on June Labour Force Survey results
- B.C. Youth Hit Hardest by Labour Market Weakness
- The Daily — Labour Force Survey, March 2025
- B.C. losing workers as youth can't find employment due to ...
- The Daily — Labour Force Survey, June 2025
- Youth unemployment on the rise in B.C.: Statistics Canada
- B.C. losing workers as youth can't find employment due to ...