Ledighetsraten

Ledighetsraten, or the unemployment rate, is the share of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking work. It is a primary indicator of labor market conditions and overall economic slack, reflecting how many people who want to work cannot find jobs at a given time.

Calculation and data sources: The rate is typically calculated as (unemployed individuals / labor force) × 100. The labor force comprises those who are employed plus those who are unemployed and actively seeking work. Data come from national labor force surveys or administrative records and are usually aligned with international definitions, such as the ILO standards. In many countries, seasonally adjusted series are provided to account for regular fluctuations in employment.

Variants and related measures: Besides the overall rate, governments report subcategories such as the youth unemployment rate, long-term unemployment rate, and, in some contexts, underemployment indicators. Some statistics also account for discouraged workers or marginal attachment to the labor force, which can influence the measured rate.

Interpretation and limitations: A rising ledighetsraten generally signals weaker demand and greater economic slack, while a falling rate suggests hiring strength. However, changes in labor force participation can affect the rate independently of job creation. The measure also depends on definitions and data collection methods, which vary across countries, limiting direct comparability.

Use in policy and research: The unemployment rate informs monetary and fiscal policy, social programs, and macroeconomic analysis. It is routinely published by national statistical agencies and international organizations such as the ILO and OECD, and is tracked over time to assess economic performance and labor market dynamics.