The unemployment rate is a measure that indicates the percentage of the labor force that is jobless and actively seeking employment. It is calculated by dividing the number of unemployed individuals by the total number of people in the labor force, then multiplying by 100. This statistic helps to assess the health of an economy and can influence government policies and economic decisions. A high unemployment rate often signals economic distress, while a low rate suggests a thriving job market. Various factors, such as economic cycles, technological changes, and government policies, can impact the unemployment rate. Understanding this rate is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and job seekers alike.