Unemployment down

• Unemployed labour force reduced by 21 thousand in November
• Number of current WW benefits up by 11 thousand
• Increase WW benefits mainly in sectors easily affected by seasonal variation

According to the most recent figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS), seasonally adjusted unemployment was reduced by 21 thousand to 653 thousand in November 2013, i.e. 8.2 percent in the labour force.

Figures released by the Institute for Implementation of Employees’ Insurances (UWV)
illustrate that the number of unemployment (WW) benefits increased by 11 thousand to 419 thousand in November.

Unemployment further down

In November, 8.2 percent in the Dutch labour force were unemployed versus 8.5 percent in October. Unemployment was reduced in the past month among both genders and across all age categories.

On average, the number of unemployed fell by 10 thousand each month over the last three months. The reduction is partly due to the fact that many people withdrew from the labour market.

According to the definition used by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), 6.9 percent in the labour force were unemployed versus 7.0 percent in October.

Substantial growth young recipients WW benefits

In November this year, 419 thousand WW benefits were granted, i.e. 3 percent more than in October. The increase was predominantly found in sectors easily affected by seasonal variation, like agriculture, hotels and restaurants and construction.

The number of current WW benefits granted to young people under the age of 25 increased above average (6 percent). The increase in the number of WW benefits was also above average in the provinces of Zeeland and Drenthe.

In November, 51 thousand new WW benefits were granted and 40 thousand were terminated.