Unemployment rate among the total population 15 years or above

Variable Definition

Unemployment variables reflect the proportion of the labor force (SECLABFOR) 15 years of age or more (with exceptions as noted Argentina where age is 10 and over and Brasil where age is 14 and over) who are unemployed, overall and by gender. Survey results are presented in three categories: employed, unemployed, or inactive. Employed refers to those who are working for payment, whether for money, products, merchandise, benefits, and/or other remuneration for at least 1 hour during a reference time period (usually a specific week). Unemployed refers to those who are not currently employed, but that are actively seeking employment during a certain time period (usually a month reference period) and are considered part of the labor force. Inactive refers to those who are not employed or unemployed and generally consists of retirees, students, volunteers, and those engaged in personal household labor activities.