Unemployment continues to drop

In the period September-November 2007, an average of 306 thousand persons (4.0 percent of the employed labour force) were unemployed as against 5.2 percent in the same period last year. According to the most recent data published by Statistics Netherlands, seaonally adjusted unemployment dropped by an average of 5 thousand a month over the past six months.

Sustained downward trend

Adjusted for seasonal effects, unemployment in the period September–November 2007 was 320 thousand, a decline by 4 thousand relative to the previous three-monthly period. As unemployment figures are based upon a sample survey, more reliable figures can be obtained by considering a longer period of time. Over the past six months, unemployment dropped by an average of approximately 5 thousand a month.

Unemployment down across the board

In the period September-November 2007, the total number of unemployed was 84 thousand lower than one year ago. Unemployment dropped across the board. Both genders each accounted for a decline in unemployment of more than 40 thousand. The corresponding rates for the male and female employed labour force were 3.2 and 5.1 percent respectively.

Unemployment declined throughout all age groups. With 3.3 percent, the lowest rate was recorded among 25 to 44-year–olds. Overall youth unemployment was 7.3 percent and 4.0 percent of over–45s were seeking work for 12 or more hours a week.

PDF contains complete press release, including tables and graphics.