Unemployment down by nearly 70 thousand in 2007

Last year, an average of 344 thousand people were unemployed, i.e. 69 thousand fewer than in 2006. The decline is about the same as the year before. In 2007, unemployment fell across all age groups and both genders.

In the last quarter of 2007, unemployment declined continuously, according to the most recent figures published by Statistics Netherlands.

Unemployment declines across the board

Unemployment declined across the board in 2007. Slightly more men than women managed to find new jobs. The male unemployment rate over 2007 averaged 3.6 percent, 5.7 percent of the female labour force were unemployed.

Unemployment fell across all age groups in 2007. The sharpest decline was recorded among 25 to 44-year-olds. In this age category, unemployment was reduced to 3.6 percent. Youth unemployment averaged 9.2 percent over 2007, whereas unemployment among over-45s stood at 4.3 percent. 

Unemployment still way above the level of 2001

Annual average unemployment has declined considerably for the second consecutive year. The average over 2005 – the year when unemployment peaked – was 483 thousand. Subsequently, it fell to 344 thousand in 2007. Yet, unemployment is still far beyond the level of 2001, when it reached its lowest point ((252 thousand unemployed).

Sustained decline unemployment in fourth quarter of 2007

The seasonally adjusted unemployment figure for the last quarter of 2007 was 314 thousand, 6 thousand lower than in the previous period September–November. Unemployment figures are based on a sample survey and a longer observation period is preferred to arrive at more reliable results. Seasonally adjusted unemployment fell by an average of 7 thousand a month over the past six months.

PDF contains complete press release, including tables and graphics.