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All countries are unique and their cultures, histories, economies, and the challenges they face can be
very different. Yet despite these differences, the economies of the world are becoming increasingly interrelated
as technology and world trade grow. As a result, local economies are increasingly affected by changes in worldwide markets.
For the United States to continue to succeed in the global economy and create more jobs at home, it is important
to understand the economic relationships that are transforming the world. U.S. workers have long enjoyed one of
the highest standards of living in the world—thanks to technology, the flexibility of our workforce, and the
remarkable productivity of our workers. To preserve these advantages, it is critical that U.S. workers have
the skills necessary to compete in the worldwide economy of the 21st century.
By understanding how the United States compares with other advanced and emerging economies, our nation will be
better prepared to take the steps necessary to ensure that our workforce and our economy continue to thrive and prosper.
Therefore, this Chartbook of International Labor Comparisons provides a comparative labor market perspective—including
employment levels, jobless rates, hours worked, labor costs, and productivity trends.
As the charts reveal, the United States leads in some areas. In other cases, our trading partners have made great progress.
This information provides a snapshot of where the United States stands today in relation to key economies of the rest of the
world. It can assist policy and decision makers in charting a course that will help prepare our nation’s workforce for
the challenges of tomorrow. I hope you find this Chartbook both relevant and informative.
Elaine L. Chao
Secretary of Laborr
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