The global unemployment population has reached 402 million in 2024, according to the May edition of the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) World Employment and Social Outlook report.
This report explains that the global ‘Jobs Gap’ accounts for individuals who are jobless but wish to work.
The ILO noted that out of the 402 million people without jobs, 183 million are classified as unemployed.
The report also highlighted that the jobs gap is particularly pronounced for women in low-income countries, including Nigeria, at 22.8 percent, compared to 15.3 percent for men.
In high-income countries, the rate is lower at 9.7 percent for women and 7.3 percent for men.
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Additionally, the report indicates that in 2024, 45.6 percent of working-age women will be employed globally, compared to 69.2 percent of men.
Despite these figures, the report forecasts a slight decrease in the global unemployment rate, from 5 percent in 2023 to 4.9 percent. ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo commented on the findings.
“Today’s report reveals critical employment challenges that we must still address. Despite our efforts to reduce global inequalities, the labor market remains an uneven playing field, especially for women.
“To achieve a sustainable recovery whose benefits are shared by all, we must work towards inclusive policies that take into consideration the needs of all workers. We must place inclusion and social justice at the core of our policies and institutions. Unless we do we will fall short of our objective to ensure strong and inclusive development.”
