arbeidskrachtenonderzoek

Arbeidskracht is a term used in Dutch to refer to the available workforce: people who are able and willing to work. In most contexts, it comprises both employed individuals and those who are unemployed but actively seeking work. The size of the arbeidskracht, often called the labor force, is determined by the demographic composition of the population, participation rates, and the health and education levels of the population.

The labor force is typically measured in national statistics through labor force surveys. Key indicators include the employment rate, unemployment rate, and the participation rate. The employment-to-population ratio differs from the labor force participation rate; the latter measures the share of the population that is either employed or looking for work, while the former measures the share that is actually employed. Age, gender, and region influence these metrics.

The size and composition of the arbeidskracht are affected by birth rates, aging, migration, education, and health. Economic conditions influence whether people seeking work can find employment. Automation and digitization can alter demand for different skills, potentially shifting the structure of the arbeidskracht.

Governments often aim to raise the effective arbeidskracht by increasing participation among groups with historically low rates, such as older workers, women, or youth, through training, childcare support, flexible work, and retirement reforms. Immigration policies can also affect the size of the labor force. Labor-market flexibility and active labor-market policies may help reduce unemployment and match workers to vacancies.