Press release

Growth in labour quality in Switzerland 1991-2006 Level of qualification - decisive factor in the labour quality

Neuchâtel, 08.12.2008 (FSO) - According to findings from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO), qualified workers benefit greatly from periods of economic growth, whereas poorly qualified workers are more affected by periods of economic downturn. At such times the latter lose their jobs in greater numbers. Between 1991 and 2006, the Swiss economy was able to draw upon a growing number of qualified workers, and the quality of the workforce grew (+0.36% per year on average). The main explanatory factor for this trend is the continuous rise in the level of education.