Final Post

During the process of this project I’ve certainly learned a lot about how unemployment is affecting people in different parts of the world. I know I’ve discussed the rates in the United States and used U.S. sources multiple times while leaving out other regions of the world, but I have tried to look at the employment situation in a variety of countries, both wealthy and poor, left in different economic states by the global recession. I also realize that a better analysis of unemployment in third world countries would have given this blog a lot more depth – perhaps this is research to be continued another time. Nevertheless, I have examined this issue in terms of comparing certain countries to our own or certain groups of countries to others in an attempt to give readers a broad idea of how workers’ status in their job markets measure up to international standards.

I’d like to leave you with an Associated Press report published in early October. The figures it uses are a few months old, but it still gives a good overview of the employment situation in 30 countries and more importantly, a bit on how and why the rates arrived at their current levels. I think that a solid knowledge of a country’s economic background helps you understand the reasons for unemployment in that country, and at least fosters awareness of the issue. As far as taking action concerning the job market, I plan to continue to stay updated on the unemployment situation and become more politically active when legislative opportunities that can create more jobs arise. I can prepare myself to fight the odds by honing the skills I will need for my career and doing the best I can in school – no matter how bleak the job market is, education is still the key to attaining ideal and fulfilling work. Some people give up trying to achieve satisfying occupation because it seems like they don’t have a chance. That’s why it’s also important to encourage people not to give up, both in earning the necessary education and in vying for  a job.