Unemployment hasn't been so low since 1980

The number of jobless people in Belgium has fallen to its lowest level since the early Eighties.  At the end of last year 327,000 people were unemployed and on full benefit.

The figure is 6.5% down on the year.  Jobless totals tumbled in all three regions, among both men and women and across all age categories.

The number of youngsters without work fell by 13%. However, among the over-60s there was a 26% increase due to changes in the system.  The employment agency RVA possesses monthly figures since 2000 allowing monthly comparisons.  Only in December 2000 did the jobless total drop below 350,000. Compared by year the total hasn't been so low since 1980.

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