Jobs
Background
Work has obvious economic benefits, but having a job also helps individuals stay connected with society, build self-esteem, and develop skills and competencies. Societies with high levels of employment are also richer, more politically stable and healthier.
Employment rate
Across the OECD, about 66% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. Employment levels are highest in Iceland (82%), Switzerland (80%) and Norway (75%), and lowest in Greece (49%), Turkey (50%), Italy and Spain (57%). Employment rates are generally higher for individuals with a higher level of education. Across the OECD, an estimated 81% of individuals with at least a tertiary education have a paid job, compared with an estimated 47% for those without an upper secondary education.
Despite a steady increase in female employment rates over the past 15 years, women are still less likely than men to have a job. In 2014, on average across OECD countries, 58% of women had jobs, compared with 74% of men. The gender difference is particularly high in Turkey and Mexico, and relatively small in Canada, Estonia and the Nordic countries. The increase in employment rates for women may be explained by structural changes in the economy and society but also by policy factors such as the provision of childcare facilities, which have made it easier for mothers with young children to return to work.
Long-Term unemployment rate
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are currently not working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth, and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. Such effects can last a long time, even after a return to work. Across the OECD, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at about 2.6%.
Creating more and better jobs is a major challenge for governments. There is no difference on average between men and women in the OECD area when it comes to long-term unemployment. Faced with ageing populations and rising social expenditures, facilitating employment for those who can work has become a priority.
Average earnings
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Earnings represent the main source of income for most households. Analysing earnings may also suggest how fairly work is remunerated.
In the OECD on average, people earn USD 40 974 per year, but average earnings differ significantly across OECD countries. In the United States and Luxembourg, average earnings are more than twice as high as in the Eastern European countries, Greece and Portugal.
Job security
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes length of unemployment and how much government financial assistance you can expect. Workers face an expected 6.3% loss of earnings on average in OECD countries if they become unemployed. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Greece and Spain, the drop in earnings is more than 25%, compared with less than 2% in Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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Jobs in Detail by Country
zaf Jobs - South Africa expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In South Africa about 43% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In South Africa, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 14.4%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In South Africa, workers face an expected 22.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, much higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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aus Jobs – Australia expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Australia, 72% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and are actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth, and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Australia, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 1.3%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Australians earn USD 51 148 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Australia, workers face an expected 3.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Helping youth transition from school to work
Australia's targeted support programmes help youth from disadvantaged communities successfully transition from school to work.
The Beacon Foundation operates a three-year programme that brings schools, community and businesses together to prepare young people for work. Beacon's 2013 annual report found that retention, employment and participation rates in the 132 schools they operated were above the national average. Over 98% of participating students were fully engaged in work, education or training nine months after completing year 10 – 11.6% higher than the national average for 16 to 17 year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds. The programme also provides a one-day Work Readiness programme for schoolchildren between 7 and 12 years old.
BoysTown is a national youth service that collaborates with mental health services, schools, and technical and further education (TAFE) and employment service providers to develop school-to-work programmes. These programmes engage or re-engage young people by offering individual case management; psychological assessments; training in literacy and numeracy, employment, job seeking, interpersonal and basic life skills. A 2004-2012 evaluation of the programme in Queensland found that 50% of participants entered employment, 20% resumed education, and 20% commenced accredited training.
Choices not Chances
Redbank Plains State High School in southwest Australia, about 30 kilometres from Brisbane, is in a low socio-economic area with a large incidence of recent migrants from the Pacific Islands and New Zealand and a relatively high level of unemployment. In 2011, the school embarked on a concerted effort to transform its performance with the help of state and federal funding. A key part of this effort was recognising that a significant proportion of students would prefer to go straight to work after leaving high school.
Redbank Plains introduced a school-to-work programme called "Choices not Chances" to help a culturally diverse school population through senior school years to sustainable employment. A specific focus is to change and challenge a culture of local unemployment through community partnerships and intensive support for students, families and the wider community.
Through the programme, the students increase their knowledge of various industries and develop the skills and habits required to work in them. Local business leaders address students at assemblies and visits are organised to give students a first-hand insight into the world of work. In their final year at school, students have the opportunity to gain direct experience through work experience placements.
A spin-off of the school’s strong focus on transition to work was jobs for parents of Redbank Plains pupils. Through its connection with the school, a local bus company with a persistent recruitment problem discovered that unemployed parents of students at the school would be an ideal source of bus drivers.
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aut Jobs – Austria expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Austria, 71% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and are actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Austria, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 1.5%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Austrians earn USD 45 988 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Austria, workers face an expected 2.2% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Vocational Education and Training
The Austrian Vocational Education and Training (VET) system has attained substantial achievements in international comparison.
It is highly diverse with many different programmes and institutions offering access to different social groups, and with range of options for students to access higher education. Highly structured professional examinations offer higher earnings and more senior positions to those acquiring skills on the job. Social partners are also included in the VET system, through the Economic Chamber and the Chamber of Labour, as active members of many commissions and co-ordination councils. This has led student numbers to continue to grow in VET colleges and Universities of Applied Sciences (UASs) have built a high reputation amongst students, employers and the general public.
However, the governance of the VET system remains uncoordinated and needs a national body to bring coherence while preserving its vibrant diversity. Also the subjects taught by VET colleges and UASs do not always reflect the needs of the economy and should take account of employers’ demands as well as student preferences.
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bel Jobs – Belgium expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Belgium, 62% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and are actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Belgium, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 4.3%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Belgians earn USD 48 093 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Belgium, workers face an expected 3.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Combining care and jobs
The social enterprise VZW IN-Z from Belgium helps people get jobs in the care sector. It has helped over 1 200 employees into permanent jobs while at the same time addressing the well-being at home for the elderly and other people, by seeking to flexibly meet their individual needs.
Target groups include women, low-skilled people, long-term jobseekers, over-fifties, people with disabilities, immigrants with poor language skills, people from disadvantaged neighbourhoods or living in poverty, and single parents with children. Extensive guidance, support and coaching are provided on a daily basis to the caregivers by a set of co-ordinators, each of whom has 15 to 30 employees to take care of.
Every caregiver has their own time planning and the hours are flexible, with people working between 33%-100% of the week. This time flexibility ensures that contracts can be permanent. For many, this is the first time they have had an open-ended contract.
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bra Jobs – Brazil expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Brazil, nearly 67% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is slightly higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Brazil, workers face an expected 6.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Job training for young people
The ProJovem Trabalhador programme provides training to unemployed youth (aged 18 to 29) from families who live on less than one minimum wage per month and per capita, to enter the labour market. Participants are expected to enrol in (or have completed) fundamental education, as well as participate in 350 hours of training – 100 hours of social training (covering topics such as ICT, ethics, citizenship, personal hygiene, rights at work, occupational health and safety at work, and entrepreneurship), and 250 hours of professional training. Participants also receive a stipend of BRL 100 per month, for a maximum duration of six months. In 2011, the programme benefited around 240 000 young people.
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can Jobs – Canada expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Canada, about 72% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and are actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Canada, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 0.9%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Canadians earn USD 48 164 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Canada, workers face an expected 3.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Breaking down barriers to employment
The BladeRunners programme helps young people (ages 15-30) with multiple barriers to employment build careers in construction and other industries throughout the province of British Columbia.
The BladeRunners programme provides participating youth with a three-week training course, and then facilitates direct job placement for programme graduates. The programme also provides extensive support services for participants and graduates 24 hours a day, seven days a week for an undetermined period of time after placement.
The ultimate goal of the programme is to develop skills and work experience that foster long-term attachment to the labour force and to support the social and community integration of young people. BladeRunners is widely regarded as a highly effective employment training model. It advertises an overall 77% post-training job placement rate, has won several awards and recognitions for its achievements, and is funded by a diverse group of public and private supporters.
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chl Jobs – Chile expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Chile, around 62% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Chile, workers face an expected 8.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Training vulnerable workers
The Chilean government launched MásCapaz to improve the labour prospects of its most vulnerable populations, particularly youth and women.
MásCapaz is an ambitious employment training programme that targets low-skilled workers and workers with weak labour market attachment. Training schemes are intensive and last between 200 and 300 hours. The programme will also increase spending in labour market programmes by 0.4% of GDP to increase women's labour participation and reduce the gender gap.
In its first year of implementation the programme attracted 56 thousand to its training course. About 50% of participants were younger than 30 years and 75.8% were among the 20% of the poorest. MásCapaz is expected to train 300 000 women and 150 000 youth by 2018.
More jobs for low-income women
In Chile, the participation of low-income women in the labour market is held down by economic barriers because work often does not pay enough to compensate the cost of childcare. Even though female participation has increased from below 40% in the early 2000s it remains low at 55.7% in 2014.
To encourage more of these women to take up paid work, the Chilean government introduced an in-work benefit (Bono al Trabajo de la Mujer) in 2012, as part of the new cash transfer programme, Ingreso Etico Familiar. It builds on the successful experience of the in-work benefit for youth (Subsidio al Empleo Jóven), and targets women aged 25-59. At least 40% of the most vulnerable working women may be able to receive the subsidy. The benefit can go up to about CLP 34 000 (USD 67) per month on top of the Ingreso Etico Familiar transfer. It also includes a subsidy for the employer to encourage labour demand. In 2012, about 180 000 women received the subsidy.
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cze Jobs – Czech Republic expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the Czech Republic, 69% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the Czech Republic, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 2.7%, slightly higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Czech people earn USD 21 185 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the Czech Republic, workers face an expected 4.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
A more flexible labour market to become more competitive
The Czech Competitiveness Strategy is a recent structural reform programme with one target: to place the Czech Republic amongst the top 20 countries in terms of economic competitiveness by 2020. On the labour front, the Strategy includes many recommendations provided in recent years by the OECD, and builds on the recent Labour Code which contributed to higher employment flexibility by allowing more adaptable working hours.
The Competitiveness Strategy strongly increases the offer of part-time jobs. Other actions favour the integration of groups such as those over 55 and women with young children. In the case of young mothers, concrete solutions include increasing the availability and quality of preschool education.
This Competitiveness Strategy responds to the medium term challenges faced by the country, which is highly commendable.
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dnk Jobs – Denmark expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Denmark, 73% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Denmark, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at about 1.7%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Danish people earn USD 49 589 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974. Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Denmark, workers face an expected 2.3% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database
Better Policies for Better Lives
Helping graduates work in SMEs
The government is helping new university graduates find work in small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). In Denmark, the unemployment rate for university graduates can be up to 60% in the first year after completing their education. University graduates often lack information on labour-market demand for workers and skills, particularly in the case of small to medium enterprises, which constitute the bulk of Danish firms. However, there is clear evidence that employment of university graduates in SMEs increases the growth potential of these companies.
The Career Centre for University Graduates in Copenhagen is designed to take advantage of this situation, by creating stronger linkages between university graduates and small and medium sized companies. The Career Centre has a dual focus: it works with university graduates to position them to find employment through counselling, guidance, and activation measures such as encouraging geographic mobility. In parallel, it works with small and medium sized businesses to identify their hiring needs and find appropriate candidates.
Coaching for entrepreneurs from ethnic minorities
The Ethnic Coach for Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurs project aims to overcome a lack of trust in the public support system by providing advice from professional coaches from the same ethnic group as the participant. The role of the coach is to help the entrepreneur adjust to the regulatory and social norms of the new country, and to build and strengthen ethnic minority social and entrepreneurial networks. Coaches help clarify and strengthen business plans and needs, then refer the entrepreneur to training and other advisory services in the local area. Once the business is launched, coaches continue to support the entrepreneurs as they develop and grow their business.
In recent years, nearly 100 ethnic minority entrepreneurs have been assisted annually. The scheme won the European Trailblazer Award in 2006 and was selected as a European best practice in the Interreg IVC project, Enspire EU (Entrepreneurial inspiration for the European Union) in 2011.
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est Jobs – Estonia expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Estonia, about 70% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Estonia, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 3.3%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Estonians earn USD 21 020 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Estonia, workers face an expected 7.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Fostering youth entrepreneurship
Estonia faces a double challenge of high youth unemployment and lack of entrepreneurial culture among its young people. The "Be Enterprising" programme, targeted at 14-19 year-olds, is designed to promote creativity, an enterprising attitude, problem solving skills and risk management knowledge.
ENTRUM (Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programme) provides three modules of entrepreneurship training as well as access to a professional network that includes business professionals and successful entrepreneurs.
More than 1 100 students, 60% of them women, took part in ENTRUM in 2010-2012. Participants have started 59 businesses, the most successful of which has more than 60 employees. The project has received a number of awards, including a Swedish Business Award in 2011.
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fin Jobs – Finland expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Finland, 69% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Finland, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at about 2%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Finns earn USD 40 742 per year on average, slightly less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Finland, workers face an expected 2.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Adult education for better employment
Finland has invested highly in vocation education and training (VET) to maintain and develop adult skills that lead to better job prospects and a greater capacity to adapt to the labour market.
About 1.7 million adults, more than 60% of the adult population, participate in adult education each year and a growing number of Finnish adults participate in further vocational education and apprenticeship training. Adults over 25 are highly represented in apprenticeship programmes, in comparison with other European countries: around 80% of apprentices are over 25 and many of the trainees are already employed when they begin an apprenticeship.
The Finnish government allocates 40% adult education budget, a relatively large proportion, to vocational education and training. Most of the programmes are offered free of charge.
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fra Jobs – France expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one’s own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In France, about 64% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In France, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 4.2%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. French people earn USD 40 828 per year on average, slightly less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In France, workers face an expected 4.6% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Developing green skills
Poor construction skills are often considered a possible weak link in the implementation of new building codes. Thus the introduction of new building codes to improve the energy efficiency of housing and commercial buildings requires re-training for construction workers. France introduced a certification system with a specific label for companies that conducted specific training of their staff on energy efficiency. Companies that adhere to the requirements receive a recognised environmental guarantee (RGE) label. Public awareness campaigns have encouraged consumers to ask for trained professionals with these labels. Companies are further encouraged to obtain this label as public financial assistance for renovating buildings only employs RGE-labelled companies.
FEEBAT is another programme of continuous vocational training partly financed by Électricité de France through the white certificates system. The programme trained 48 000 construction professional between 2008 and 2012 and has been prolonged to 2017.
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deu Jobs – Germany expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Germany, about 74% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Germany, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 2.2%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Germans earn USD 43 872 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Germany, workers face an expected 2.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Start-up subsidies to help tackle unemployment
The German labour market responded well to the financial crisis, demonstrating the benefits of previous labour market reforms and projects that increased work incentives and improved job matching.
One successful initiative was the Start-Up Subsidy, a programme that provides financial support to unemployed people who start a business. The programme helps new entrepreneurs cover basic living costs and social security contributions during the initial stage when businesses typically do not yield substantial income.
More than 100 000 people took part in the programme in the first five years. Evaluations show that the programme is effective and cost efficient when the supported business founders are compared with other unemployed individuals. These businesses have higher survival rates than non-supported ones. Nearly 40% of business founders who received the subsidy created as many jobs as employed people who started their own businesses. After five years fewer than 10% of participants had returned to unemployment.
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grc Jobs – Greece expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Greece, about 49% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much lower than the OECD employment average of 66% and the lowest figure in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Greece, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at almost 19.5%, more than six times the OECD average and the highest rate in the OECD where average unemployment is of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Greeks earn USD 26 436 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Greece, workers face an expected 32% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, much higher than the OECD average of 6.3% and the highest across the OECD.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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hun Jobs – Hungary expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Hungary, 62% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Hungary, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at almost 3.8%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Hungarians earn USD 21 399 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Hungary, workers face an expected 7.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Helping the Roma enter the labour market
The Szechenyi Entrepreneurial Programme (SEP) encourages the integration of Roma people into Hungarian society by providing financial support to improve the market position of Roma enterprises and to increase the social inclusion of Roma people.
The nationwide initiative aims to address the investment needs of Roma businesses and those employing Roma people and principally provides financial support in the form of a grant. The scheme also offers non-financial support, including information services and networking events. Part of the reason for the success of the programme has been the willingness of its managers to be flexible and to redefine eligibility criteria as the programme was implemented. The offer of both financial and non-financial support is also advantageous because these two aspects are mutually supportive. Between 2003 and 2007 a total of 332 grants (worth a total value of EUR 4.6 million) were distributed and an estimated 400 new jobs were created.
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isl Jobs – Iceland expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Iceland, 82% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much higher than the OECD employment average of 66% and the highest rate in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Iceland, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 0.7%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Iceland, workers face an expected 0.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, much lower than the OECD average of 6.3% and the lowest across the OECD.
For more information on estihmates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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irl Jobs – Ireland expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Ireland, about 61% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Ireland, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at about 7%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Irish people earn USD 53 286 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Ireland, workers face an expected 5% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Skills boosting
Ireland encourages the development of high level skills through sector specific training programmes.
Skillnets is Ireland's largest organisation supporting workplace training. It promotes and facilitates workplace training and upskilling by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Skillnets also heads a national programme that steers regional and sectoral SME training networks. These training plans are adapted to suit specific company workforces. Skillnets expanded in 2010 to provide training for jobseekers, including programmes like the Jobseeker Support Programme, which includes work placements. It had 70 operational networks, 30 of which were based on Dublin, and trained over 40 000 people in 2011.
The Momentum programme offers training for high level skills in line with the Action Plan for Jobs and Pathways to Work. The second phase of Momentum was launched in 2014 to provide up to 6 000 education and training places for the long-term unemployed to tackle skill shortages.
Springboard+ 2015 incorporates the Springboard programme and ICT Skills Conversion programme to place jobseekers in training courses. It will provide over 9 000 places in free part-time and full-time higher education reskilling and upskilling courses. The Springboard programme provided over 5 700 places in 212 courses, including ICT conversion courses, in 2014 alone.
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isr Jobs – Israel expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Israel, around 68% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Israel, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 0.6%, much lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Israelis earn USD 29 625 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Israel, workers face an expected 3.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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ita Jobs – Italy expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Italy, nearly 57% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66% and one of the lowest in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Italy, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 7.8%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Italians earn USD 34 744 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Italy, workers face an expected 11.8% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Learning from elders
Italy has a well-established system of senior expert services where retired managers or former business owners wanting to let others benefit from their working experience provide assistance to companies and governments abroad as well as other activities.
In Turin, a group of senior experts has created a project called Youngsters – Work ExperienceAbroad, which brings together senior experts with long standing business experience and know-how and young university graduates with up to-date academic knowledge and new ideas around projects to support SMEs to export. Within the project, up to 40 young graduates from Turin universities are prepared and trained in a 20-hour course, visit several Piedmont companies and then accompany senior experts on their missions abroad in support of these companies.
Helping disadvantaged people and the environment
Vesti Solidale is an Italian social co-operative founded near Milan in 1998 to protect the environment while creating jobs for vulnerable individuals. The primary activity of the co-operative is the collection and reuse of clothes and other materials – including shoes and bags, ink-jet cartridges and laser toners for printers, electronic equipment, cell phones – and promotion of environmentally sustainable consumption patterns. Additionally they offer different services – such as street cleaning – aimed at protecting the environment and making green areas more accessible to the community.
Vesti Solidale provides jobs for people with diverse backgrounds, such as physically or mentally disabled people, ex-offenders, drug or alcohol addicts, homeless people, and refugees. Between 1998 and 2011 it employed 250 people, 65% of whom came from marginalised social situations.
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jpn Jobs – Japan expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Japan, 73% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Japan, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 1.4%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Japanese people earn USD 35 672 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Japan, workers face an expected 2.4% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Reaching young jobseekers
Job Cafés were introduced in Japan to provide youth with a one-stop employment service centre. Clients can access matching services, collective information seminars, individual counselling resume preparation, training in interview techniques, and aptitude tests. Hello Work branches are available at some of the cafés to offer work placement services. Job Cafés are managed by Japanese prefectures with co-operation from local firms and educational institutions. Thus, clients receive advice adapted to reflect the technical skills needed by local industry and around the best curricula and educational materials to consult. By 2014, 110 centres (cafés) and 39 Hello Work branches were operational in 46 prefectures reaching nearly 1.68 million young people annually.
Supporting skills development and employment
The Chiba Vocational Training Support Center – Polytechnic Center Chiba (PPC) is a public vocational training institution that protects elderly employment, promotes vocational independence of persons with disabilities, and promotes assistant services and training courses. The PCC operates in four areas: training courses for jobseekers (available for jobseekers in general); training courses for workers; consultation and assistance for employers; and jobseekers support training (targeted to non-EI recipients). The employment rate of 715 jobseekers following training was 90.3%; 1 003 workers were enrolled in training courses to advance skills; and jobseekers support training provided 343 courses to 7 902 trainees in 2012. On average, 75% of trainees find a permanent job as training is closely designed to local needs.
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kor Jobs – Korea expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Korea, 65% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is slightly lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Korea, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 0.01%, the lowest rate in the OECD where the average long-term unemployment rate is 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Koreans earn USD 36 653 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Korea, workers face an expected 2.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Job World
Korea Job World is a job centre in the city of Seongnam-si in Gyeonggi-do province, providing career guidance to the public, and young people in particular. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and experience various occupations and career opportunities in an interactive way. It is designed to help people obtain a realistic view about possible professional choices and prospects, and to give career advice based on individual interests and aptitude.
Visitors are guided through three main halls: The World Hall, Job Experience Hall, and the Career Design Hall. The World Hall offers images and descriptions about typical occupations and their employment trends, while the Job Experience Hall (mainly aimed at children and youth) enables visitors to experience them in realistic settings. Finally, in the Career Design Hall visitors can perform an animated test to discover their occupational interests and aptitude, after which they are given career advice accordingly. Korea Job World was opened in August 2012 and now hosts around 3 000 visitors a day.
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lux Jobs – Luxembourg expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Luxembourg, about 67% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is slightly higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Luxembourg, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 1.6%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. People in Luxembourg earn USD 61 511 per year on average, much more than the OECD average of USD 40 974 and the highest rate in the OECD.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Luxembourg, workers face an expected 2.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Encouraging self-employment among young people
The public-private initiative Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg (Young entrepreneurs in Luxembourg) promotes entrepreneurship and self-employment as an alternative to paid employment for young people. The non-profit organisation offers tailor-made and practice-orientated training for students, supported by the private sector and the main professional chambers in Luxembourg. The project reaches students through their formal education, and annual fairs and entrepreneurship events. For example, the annual fair in 2013 was attended by 400 students from 13 schools. The project has also been successful at raising the profile and awareness about youth entrepreneurship through extensive media coverage.
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mex Jobs – Mexico expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Mexico, about 60% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Mexico, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 0.1%, much lower than the OECD average of 2.6% and one of the lowest in the OECD.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. People in Mexico earn USD 12 850 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974 and the lowest in the OECD.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Mexico, workers face an expected 5.2% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database
Better Policies for Better Lives
Reform for a better functioning labour market
The Mexican government made a major breakthrough in improving the functioning of the labour market by passing a new reform into law in 2012. The reform reduces the stringency of job protection, which reduces formal labour participation, notably for women. The law should help boost formal job creation and productivity, by enabling employers to adjust their labour force at lower cost and with less judicial uncertainty. While the new law's impact is still uncertain, OECD estimates that these reforms could raise potential growth by 0.1 percentage points or more. Since its adoption formal employment has been more rapid than both overall employment and GDP growth.
To further encourage the formalisation of the workforce the government launched "Go Formal" in 2014. The strategy pools the benefits and resources of different programmes and is expected to facilitate access to the labour market and strengthen labour justice enforcement. A new Formal Promotion Program will train and place workers in formal jobs.
A new tax regime for micro and small firms was created to provide an entry to formality by allowing them to be completely incorporated in the general tax regime after ten years. Evidence suggests this new tax regime, along with "Go Formal" campaigning efforts, is having a positive effect. Around 4.3 million firms have already registered under the new scheme, compared to 3.5 million under its predecessor.
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nld Jobs – Netherlands expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the Netherlands, about 73% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the Netherlands, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at about 3%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Dutch people earn USD 51 003 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the Netherlands, workers face an expected 3.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Helping disabled students find work
The project "Boris helps you into work" (Boris brengt je naar een baan) helps secondary schools better support students with disabilities in acquiring a job. In collaboration with vocational schools and certified companies, the approach of practice-based learning was adapted to students with disabilities in secondary special education.
About a third of the 355 students completed the programme; of these 51% ended up in work, 31% went on to subsequent education and the remaining group moved on to sheltered employment or daytime activities. The participating schools judged that the project helped them in improving the quality of practice-based learning trajectories, acquiring a better view on the job opportunities within the region and extending their network for internships.
The project "With the coach for the job" (Met de coach naar de job) supports students with a disability during the internship in their final study year and in their transition into the labour market. Job coaches were placed in secondary special education to help students looking for a suitable company for their internship and to guide them during the period of the internship. Students with a job coach had fewer problems during their internship and more often acquired regular work after finishing the study (50% compared with 33% of the students without a job coach).
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nzl Jobs – New Zealand expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In New Zealand, about 74% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In New Zealand, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 0.8%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In New Zealand, workers face an expected 4.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Branding New Zealand abroad
One important initiative has been the creation of a web-based database in which persons interested in migrating to New Zealand can register their interest. By 2014, more than 200 000 migrant candidates have registered for this database which is integrated into the broader "New Zealand Now" portal (www.newzealandnow.govt.nz) that provides a wide range of information about working, living and studying in the country. Migrant candidates who have registered in the database also receive other information about New Zealand, including on recruitment fairs which are regularly organised by Immigration New Zealand in the main origin countries. Registered employers have access to this candidate database via the "Skill Finder". This free service allows employers to search the candidate database by occupation, level of academic qualification, residence and years of experience. They then register their vacancy and submit a request to the Immigration New Zealand marketing team who will work within the following business days with the employer to format a formal request to the candidates in the database they identified as suitable. Recipients can then apply for the position by sending their CV directly to the employer via a special web account set up for this purpose. Only skilled or shortage occupations are eligible.
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nor Jobs – Norway expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Norway, about 75% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much higher than the OECD employment average of 66% and is one of the highest rates across the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Norway, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 0.4%, much lower than the OECD average of 2.6% and one of the lowest in the OECD.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Norwegians earn USD 51 718 per year on average, more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Norway, workers face an expected 1.5% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Attracting migrant workers to rural areas
In Norway, regions face a challenge in building an infrastructure for expatriates. One example is the coastal county of Møre and Romsdal, where the largest town, Ålesund, has 45 000 inhabitants. Specialised in shipbuilding supplying the oil industry, local firms report a continuous shortage of engineers and other tertiary-educated workers, and is therefore interested in attracting new families.
The lifestyle in rural Norway suits some labour migrants but not others. Departure in the initial year is high. The county reports that if the migrant or family stays more than one year, they are likely to remain over time. Female labour migrants generally arrive single but settle if they find a partner. Male migrants tend to bring their families; once their children are in school, retention is high.
The Ålesund Chamber of Commerce in partnership with regional businesses and local authorities created an international school as a non-profit foundation. The Norwegian state pays 85% of the cost of the school, so tuition is a fraction of the cost of private schools in Oslo. The county has also pushed the municipal services in rural towns to be more proactive with new migrants, going out to welcome them upon arrival, identify their needs and help them. For spouses who arrive without employment, local firms are active in trying to identify possible employment for them.
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pol Jobs – Poland expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Poland, close to 62% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Poland, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at almost 3.3%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Polish people earn USD 23 649 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Poland, workers face an expected 8.9% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Integrating older workers
Following research that showed Poland had an exceptionally low labour market participation rate amongst the population 50+, and that there was little awareness of the gravity of this problem, the "Benefits of Maturity" project was launched. The project raises awareness of the low labour market participation rates of this group, promotes the advantages of employment and shares best practices on employing older workers. Activities include a national information campaign, seminars for employers and employment agencies, a website where research and best practices are distributed, and a competition for employers and employment services.
Since the start of the initiative, more than a dozen companies that have implemented age management programmes have been awarded recognition in the competition.
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prt Jobs – Portugal expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Portugal, around 63% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Portugal, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 8.3%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Portuguese people earn USD 23 977 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Portugal, workers face an expected 11.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, much higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Jobs for innovation and productivity
The Portuguese economy contracted in 2011-13 in the wake of the global financial crisis. However, GDP is forecast to grow in real terms in 2014. The government has taken significant action to restore the sustainability of public finances and restart growth. On-going reforms aim to improve product and labour market regulation, upgrade education and skills, and enhance innovation.
Innovation also has a major role to play in boosting productivity. Portugal’s business environment is very conducive to entrepreneurship, although provision of venture capital is at the median of OECD countries. Various initiatives support business innovation, entrepreneurship and SMEs. +Innovation +Industry is a new investment programme addressed to small firms and entrepreneurs in traditional business sectors. +Innovation +Industry aims to promote business spin-offs and innovation capacity by providing access to a Venture Capital Funds, business accelerators for internationalisation and coaching for business development. SIFIDE provides fixed and incremental tax credits for R&D and supports the hiring of doctoral-level graduates in companies. In 2013, the government launched INOVA, Creative Youngsters: Entrepreneurs for the 21st century programme to develop an environment that favours innovation and creativity in primary and secondary schools. The programme seeks to foster youngsters' analytical capabilities and the mind-sets needed to identify business opportunities, take risks and face competition.
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rus Jobs – Russia expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the Russian Federation, 69% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the Russian Federation, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 1.5%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the Russian Federation, workers face an expected 5.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
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svk Jobs – Slovak Republic expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the Slovak Republic, around 61% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the Slovak Republic, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at nearly 8.8%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Slovak people earn USD 22 151 per year on average, much less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the Slovak Republic, workers face an expected 10.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Creating entrepreneurs
The Slovak Republic is among the EU countries with the highest levels of unemployment, despite the current recovery in GDP, with young people and women particularly hard-hit. The Training and Advisory Services for Potential Entrepreneurs project offers training and business advisory services to unemployed people, youth, and women during and after maternity leave, seniors and immigrants to support the development of business plans.
The programme aims to increase awareness and knowledge of opportunities in self-employment through training while providing advice to those who wish to start. Applications are assessed by business advisors, who refer the potential entrepreneurs to free training courses and business advisory services.
Almost 10 000 people have taken part in training courses since they were started in 2002, and in 2011, 73% of those who participated in training started a business.
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svn Jobs – Slovenia expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Slovenia, about 64% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Slovenia, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 5.3%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Slovenians earn USD 33 068 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Slovenia, workers face an expected 5.2% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Supporting young entrepreneurs
To reduce unemployment among young people, the government provides support for people not in education, employment, or training to enter the labour market through self-employment.
The programme provides unemployment benefits to young people who are starting a business and have been unemployed for 3 months or more. Procedures vary across regions and financial grants are higher in regions with higher unemployment. Applicants first complete a business plan at their local Labour Office. They must then attend a consultation interview where their business idea is assessed, and attend a training workshop for self-employment. They then receive a self-employment grant of up to EUR 4 500 per person.
The Employment Service of Slovenia considers the programme a success since 85% of participants operated companies for at least two years. The number of participants increased from 417 in 2007 to 5 148 in 2010.
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esp Jobs – Spain expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Spain, around 57% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is lower than the OECD employment average of 66% and is one of the lowest figures in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Spain, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 12.9%, much higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Spaniards earn USD 36 013 per year on average, less than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Spain, workers face an expected 26.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, much higher than the OECD average of 6.3% and one of the highest in the OECD.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Encouraging entrepreneurship among women
Spain was hit very hard by the economic crisis and the unemployment rate for women has been the highest in the EU since 2007. Women are less likely than men to start a business, and those who do typically operate smaller businesses than men.
The EMEKIN project in Gipuzkoa province in northern Spain provides entrepreneurship training and financial support to women who want to start a business. The project also matches new women entrepreneurs with more experienced entrepreneurs who provide mentoring. A key feature of this project is its integrated approach, involving several key stakeholders – local government, financial institutions and other women entrepreneurs. This allows potential women entrepreneurs to strengthen their human, social and financial capital.
Available data suggest that the level of entrepreneurial activity by women in the province is increasing, both in terms of quality and quantity.
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swe Jobs – Sweden expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Sweden, 75% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Sweden, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently 1.3%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Swedish people earn USD 40 994 per year on average, slightly more than the OECD average USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Sweden, workers face an expected 5.2% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Supporting jobseekers
Jobbtorg is an employment service for youth, immigrants, and other people who are not eligible for unemployment benefits. The service is run by local governments in association with the Swedish Public Employment Service (Arbetsförmedlingen). Jobseekers are offered coaching, matching and guidance counselling once they register with the employment service. In Stockholm, Jobbtorg services help about 3 000 out of 6 000 clients find a job or education every year.
Jobbstart is an associated service that offers clients with training in a job-like situation. This programme includes a three-week training course followed by three months of on-the-job training. Upon completion trainees can be hired on for a full year. About 50 out of 100 participants get hired on through this programme every year. Participants also benefit from courses, job-testing and further job-training. People with social problems, drug abuse, or previous convictions can access specialised services to help them enter the labour market.
Jobs for ex-offenders
The Krami project facilitates entry into the labour market by unemployed ex-offenders (18-40 years old). The projects provide counselling and guidance in different areas of work during the first two to four weeks of participation. This is followed by a period of job experience accompanied by social activities. The goal is for participants to find employment after two to five months of job experience. After employment begins, support continues to be provided to the participant and the employer in order to maintain employment.
Today there are Krami in 24 different localities. The Swedish Prison and Probation Service, the Public Employment Service and the local social services all contribute at least one staff member to each centre. Approximately 50% of participants get jobs or start training after completing the programme. Those who drop out often fall back into drugs or criminality, but many of them actually come back to Krami and achieve their goal on the second, third or fourth attempt. An evaluation in 2013 showed a 43% increase in the probability of receiving an ordinary salary for those taking part in Krami activities and the probability of relapsing into crime was 32% less.
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che Jobs – Switzerland expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Switzerland, around 80% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much higher than the OECD employment average of 66% and is one of the highest rates in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Switzerland, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at almost 1.7%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. Swiss people earn USD 57 082 per year on average, much more than the OECD average of USD 40 974 and one of the highest rates across the OECD.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Switzerland, workers face an expected 1.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Vocational education and training
Switzerland prioritises vocational education and training for students in upper secondary education. More than 65% of Swiss students are enrolled in pre-vocational or vocation programmes, compared with an OECD average of 44%. Around 93% of those enrolled participate in joint vocational programmes that combine work- and school-based elements. Funding for vocational education and training is provided by the Confederation, cantons and companies.
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tur Jobs – Turkey expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Turkey, about 50% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is much lower than the OECD employment average of 66%, and is one of the lowest rates in the OECD.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Turkey, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 2%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In Turkey, workers face an expected 9.1% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, higher than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Women's participation in the labour market
Government subsidies for hiring female and younger workers, coupled with the increased need of families to secure second earner incomes in the global crisis, increased labour market participation among aged 25-54-year-old women from 29.3% in 2008 to 37.3% in 2012.
Traditionally, women have had very low labour force participation rates in Turkey, reflecting shortcomings in human capital as 78% of the female working age population have less than high school education, 58% have primary education or less and 17% are illiterate.
However, between 2005 and 2012, female participation and employment in urban areas both increased by over 50%. About half of the increase in urban female employment was achieved by university-educated women, reflecting an increase in female higher education. Employment rates also improved for women with high school education and, more drastically, for women with less than high school education, whose participation rate rose from 11.7% in 2008 to 16% in 2012. Female employment increased more rapidly in services. Nevertheless, the expansion of manufacturing jobs has also been an important driver for women with less than high-school education.
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gbr Jobs – United Kingdom expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the United Kingdom, around 73% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the United Kingdom, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 2.2%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. People in the United Kingdom earn USD 41 659 per year on average, slightly more than the OECD average of USD 40 974.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the United Kingdom, workers face an expected 5.7% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.
Better Policies for Better Lives
Helping at-risk students move from education to work
The Glasgow Youth Employment Partnership supports young people identified as at-risk in their penultimate year of compulsory education. The programme provides coaches who work with young people on a one to one basis. The young person will set goals and establish a programme of participation to move them towards a positive destination. Initially, this might involve small steps, but the aim is to move them into education, employment or training over a 24-week period. The young person receives an allowance of GBP 30 per week for participation and completion of the agreed steps.
The feedback and results of this initiative in Glasgow have been encouraging, with more participants and a higher rate of success than in other areas - 48% of the city's 601 participants have achieved positive outcomes as a result.
Partnerships for job creation
Training colleges in Nottingham work with local employers to match skills with demand. Central College Nottingham and Kia Motors UK have agreed to a long-term partnership to train future employees for the company's national dealership network. Over the duration of the partnership more than 700 apprentices will be trained, which is estimated to be worth over GBP 10 million to the local economy.
West Nottinghamshire has worked with employers in the corrugated paper industry (who are facing the challenge of an ageing workforce) to develop a flexible training programme. The programme incorporates the companies' in-house training programmes into apprenticeships leading to a Technical Certificate, which has been submitted for approval to the relevant awarding body. The pilot programme has resulted in one local company committing to this apprenticeship framework as part of their workforce development strategy with an intake of between 10-15 new apprenticeships per year.
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usa Jobs – United States expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In the United States, about 68% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job. This figure is higher than the OECD employment average of 66%.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In the United States, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 1.4%, lower than the OECD average of 2.6%.
The wages and other monetary benefits that come with employment are an important aspect of job quality. People in the United States earn USD 57 139 per year on average, much more than the OECD average of USD 40 974 and one of the highest rates across the OECD.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets. In the United States, workers face an expected 5.2% loss of earnings if they become unemployed, lower than the OECD average of 6.3%.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database
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lva Jobs- Latvia expand
Key Findings
Having a job brings many important benefits, including: providing a source of income, improving social inclusion, fulfilling one's own aspirations, building self-esteem and developing skills and competencies. In Latvia, about 66% of the working-age population aged 15 to 64 has a paid job, in line with the OECD employment average.
Unemployed persons are defined as those who are not currently working but are willing to do so and actively searching for work. Long-term unemployment can have a large negative effect on feelings of well-being and self-worth and result in a loss of skills, further reducing employability. In Latvia, the percentage of the labour force that has been unemployed for a year or longer is currently at 4.7%, higher than the OECD average of 2.6%.
Another essential factor of employment quality is job security, in terms of expected loss of earnings when someone becomes unemployed. This includes how likely you are to lose your job, how long you are likely to remain unemployed and how much financial assistance you can expect from government. Workers facing a high risk of job loss are more vulnerable, especially in countries with smaller social safety nets.
For more information on estimates and years of reference, see FAQ section and BLI database.