Series breaks:
As from 2006 age is defined as completed years at the time of the reference week, instead of completed years at the end of the year as earlier. The lower age limit to be covered by the survey was lowered from 16 to 15. Persons on lay-off are no longer classified as unemployed, but as employed.
In 1996 a continuous survey was introduced with new estimation procedures and a new definition of unemployment was adopted: job seekers are required to be available for work during the 2 weeks following the interview whereas previously the availability required was during the week of the reference period.
In 1988, data collection became monthly but the results are still published quarterly.
In 1986, the definition of family workers in employment was modified: they became classified as employed regardless of the number of hours they worked, previously only family workers working 10 hours or more per week were included.
In 1979, a new estimation procedure and a change in the definition of employment were introduced: conscripts became classified as employed persons.