The number of the registered unemployed increased by almost 55% during the year.
According to the National Statistical Committee with reference to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, at the end of February, there were 35.9 thousand of unemployed. Compared with January, the number of unemployed increased by 17.1%, and 54.9% when compared with the data of February last year.
Organizations (excluding small businesses) are still laying off more than they recruit. In February, 49.6 thousands of new workers were recruited. The number of the laid off workers was 53.2 thousands.
The massive wave of people registering as unemployed appeared in Belarus after statement by the head of state about the fight against “freeloaders”. A draft decree has already been included in the agenda of the Belarus Council of Ministers. According to it, those who have not been officially employed for six months, will have to pay a special tax.
belsat.eu/en/, National Statistical Committee
