Nearly half of unemployed were also unemployed three months ago

In the first quarter van 2012, unemployment increased further to reach 484 thousand. More and more people remained unemployed for a period of at least two consecutive quarters. The number of unemployed who were still employed in the previous quarter also increased marginally.

Still unemployed after three months

In the first quarter of this year, nearly half of unemployed were also unemployed three months ago. Their number has gradually risen over the past quarters. With 229 thousand, the number almost equals the previous record dating back to early 2010.

There is also an increase in unemployed who still had paid jobs three months ago: 116 thousand in the first quarter, i.e. nearly one quarter of all unemployed.

The remaining 139 thousand unemployed in the first quarter of 2012 were not included in the labour force three months ago: either they were not actively seeking employment or they were not available for the labour market. Their number has been fairly stable throughout the years.

Labour market status unemployed in the age category 15-65 three months ago

Most young people only recently unemployed

Many young unemployed were not included in the labour force three months ago. These are often school leavers and graduates from vocational colleges and universities seeking employment. The number of young people joining the ranks of the unemployed is usually highest in het third quarter. With 71 thousand, the number was relatively high in 2011.

Labour market status unemployed in the age category 15-25 three months ago

More older people remain unemployed

Last year and particularly in the latter two quarters, the number of 45 to 65-year-olds remaining unemployed has risen dramatically. In the first quarter of this year, 102 thousand unemployed over-45s were also unemployed three months ago versus 82 thousand in the first quarter of 2011.

Labour market status unemployed in the age category 45-65 three months ago

Robert de Vries