The employment rate in OECD countries has remained broadly stable through late 2024. According to the most recent OECD data, the average employment rate across all OECD countries stood at 70.2% in the fourth quarter of 2024, close to record highs reached earlier that year (OECD). This average employment rate represents the share of the working-age population (ages 15-64) that is employed. In two-thirds of OECD countries, the employment rate exceeded the OECD average, with Italy and France being notable exceptions among G7 countries, as they remained below the OECD average. However, escalating trade tensions, geopolitical and policy uncertainties, and inflation are expected to slow economic growth in 2025 (OECD).

Issued on 10/08/25 12:07am
The OECD site linked in the resolution criteria has been experiencing technical issues. Employment rate data can also be found on the OECD Data Explorer with the following parameters set:

• Reference area: OECD
• Measure: Employment Rate
• Adjustment: Calendar and seasonally adjusted
• Sex: Total
• Age: From 15 to 64 years
• Frequency of observation: Annual

Issued on 10/30/25 03:12pm
The original OECD link we provided for employment rate data has been updated by the OECD to display employment rates for all persons aged 15 or over, rather than the working-age population (15-64) that it previously showed and that this question is based on. To ensure forecasters have access to the correct data (employment rate for ages 15-64), we have updated the resolution criteria to link directly to the OECD Data Explorer, which we had previously shared as a backup source.