In April actual unemployment rate comprised 9.2%, up by 1.3% MoM.
Unemployment rate registered by the State Employment Agency (NVA) accounted for 8% and, compared to March, it had risen by 1.2%. Unemployment rate increase may be observed also when comparing the data to the April of the previous year – of 2.7% in actual unemployment rate and of 1.7% in registered unemployment rate, according to data compiled by the Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia (CSB).
Registered and actual unemployment rate is calculated based on the NVA data and results of the Labor Force Survey conducted by the CSB.
For estimate of actual unemployment of Labor Force Survey data of Q1 and registered monthly unemployment data from NVA were used.
Taking into account emergency situation declared throughout the national territory with a view to restrict the spread of COVID-19, as of March 13, interviewer’s home visits were suspended. As CSB did not have telephone numbers of all households included in the sample, response rate of the survey decreased, which also affected quality of information compiled. In the upcoming months data might be revised.
The CSB reminds that during changes it is essential to acquire information on population employment to assess impact of current situation on economic and social processes in the country. As of March 13, respondents are not being interviewed at their homes any more, but interviews still continue by telephone and electronically on the CSB website e.csb.gov.lv, therefore, respondents are encouraged to be active and participate in surveys. (BNN/Business World Magazine)