New Poll Profiles Jobless Crisis - 3 out of 4 Still Unemployed

(credit: LendingMemo)

According to a poll conducted by Metron Analysis, about three out of every four unemployed persons in Greece have been unable to find a job for at least two and a half years now, or since their dismissal. The results of the poll show that 72% of those unemployed are even willing to accept a lower-paying job -just as long as they find some type of work. The study shows that unemployment mostly affects the self employed and employees, with the majority seeking employment in Greece.

The results which were presented by the To Vima newspaper also note that the greatest effect of unemployment appears to be in social cohesion. The report said that while social trust has remained consistent throughout the development of the crisis, trust in the political system has made a nose dive especially amongst the unemployed. In fact about one third of those unemployed or roughly 32% are in favor of Greece leaving the Eurozone.

In regards to the psychological impact of unemployment, 9 out of 10 responded that they had feelings of insecurity and fear, 6 out of 10 said they have aggressive sentiments, 4 out of 10 noted problems in their interpersonal relations and just 2 out of 10 stated that the situation made them more active. Moreover, some 74% of respondents said that they were supported by their families, while only 18% relies on unemployment benefits and 7% on welfare.

Asked about a solution to the problem, 87% said they believe that reducing taxation on new businesses is essential, 80% said that new businesses must be supported, 78% are apparently in favor of support mechanisms that would boost self-employment and 77% said that the focus must be on unemployment subsidy programs.