According to the Statistical Center of Iran, over 57% of men and only 10% of women aged ten and above who are of working age are employed. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported on the results of the labor force survey conducted in spring 2015, stating that the unemployment rate in spring 2015 decreased by about one percent compared to winter 2014. During the spring and summer seasons, when agricultural work increases, the unemployment rate decreases compared to the fall and winter seasons. Meanwhile, the most significant characteristics of unemployment in Iran are the high rates of unemployment among women, youth, and educated individuals, with the rates being 19% for women, about 21% for youth, and between 36% to 48% for university graduates. According to the definition by the Statistical Center of Iran, "all individuals aged ten or older who worked at least one hour during the survey week or temporarily left work for any reason are considered employed." The employment ratio indicates what percentage of the working-age population is employed. This ratio in urban areas for the population aged 15 and above shows that about 35% of the working-age population in urban areas and about 41% in rural areas are employed. The mentioned ratios do not indicate a favorable labor market situation in Iran. As Fereydoun Khavand, an economic expert residing in France, states: "There is only one way to combat unemployment, and that is economic growth. If China creates eleven million net jobs a year or the U.S. creates 220,000 net jobs a month, the only reason is growth." According to Mr. Khavand, "Iran needs a growth rate of seven or eight percent per year, which is only possible with increased investment from domestic and foreign sources. An economy trapped by the government and quasi-government monopolies cannot create job opportunities." According to official sources such as Ali Rabiei, the Iranian Minister of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare, there are currently about six million unemployed individuals in Iran.
Women and Educated Individuals: The Highest Unemployment Rates in Iran
The unemployment rates in Iran are alarmingly high, especially among women and educated individuals, with women facing a 19% unemployment rate and university graduates between 36% to 48%. Economic experts emphasize that substantial economic growth is necessary to combat this issue, which is currently hindered by government and quasi-government monopolies. This situation highlights significant challenges in Iran's labor market.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The unemployment rates in Iran are notably high, particularly among women and educated individuals, with women facing a 19% unemployment rate and university graduates experiencing rates between 36% to 48%. Economic experts argue that significant economic growth is essential to address these issues.
- 57% of men and only 10% of women aged ten and above are employed.
- There are approximately six million unemployed individuals in Iran.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has been grappling with high unemployment rates, particularly among specific demographics, which reflects broader economic issues tied to government policies and market conditions.
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