Seasonal unemployment
Seasonal unemployment reflects predictable changes in labour demand at particular times of year, such as tourism or harvest-related activity. Workers affected must still meet the relevant statistical unemployment definition. Seasonal adjustment of an economic series helps analyse underlying movements but does not remove the actual experience of losing seasonal work. Alternative work, training or diversified activity can reduce exposure.
Worked example
A resort reduces staffing after its main visitor season. A former employee who is seeking and available for other work may become unemployed, while another worker moving directly to a winter-season job may not.
Common mistake
Do not confuse a predictable annual pattern with a general cyclical downturn or count every person whose seasonal contract ended as unemployed without checking their current status.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
