Sustained decline in unemployment

In the period October-December 2006, the seasonally adjusted unemployment figure in the Netherlands stood at 394 thousand, a reduction by 11 thousand relative to the period September-November.

Unemployment continues to fall. From the summer of 2005 to the summer of 2006, unemployment declined each month. During the summer of 2006, unemployment varied around 409 thousand and subsequently began to fall again at the end of the year.

In the period October-December, unemployment was 70 thousand down on the same period one year previously. More man than woman managed to find a job. Male and female unemployment were reduced by 49 and 21 thousand respectively. Unemployment declined in all age groups, but was most substantial among 25 to 44-year-olds.

Unemployment, seasonally adjusted