Again fewer unemployed

In the period November 2007-January 2008, the seasonally adjusted unemployment figure stood at 313 thousand, i.e. 1 thousand down on the period October–December. Over the last six months, the number of unemployed fell by an average of about 7 thousand a month.

Unemployment was reduced by 66 thousand compared to the same three-monthly period in the previous year. The most substantial reduction was recorded among 25 to 44-year-olds. Nearly three quarters of the total reduction was realised in this age group. Unemployment also declined among young people and over-45s. Female unemployment decreased more than male unemployment. Still, most unemployed are women.

In the period November-January, an average of 4.0 percent of the total Dutch labour force were unemployed, as against 5.0 percent in the same period the year before. The unemployment rate for women was higher than for men: 5.1 percent and 3.2 percent respectively. 

Seasonally adjusted unemployment has shown a downward trend for about two-and-a-half years now. In this period, the number of unemployed fell by approximately 180 thousand. Unemployment declined across the board.

Unemployment, seasonally adjusted