OECD unemployment rates show long swings which dominate shorter business cycle components and these long swings show a range of common patterns. Using a panel of 21 OECD countries 1960-2002, we estimate the common factor that drives unemployment by the first principal component. This factor has...

This paper describes the relationship between central bank interest rates and exchange rates under a capital control regime. Higher interest rates may strengthen the currency by inducing owners of local currency assets not to sell local currency offshore. There is also an effect that goes in the...

The Nordic countries are known for their success in combining an extensive welfare state with high labor force participation. This is explained by the origins and organization of their welfare states, which can be traced to a set of values and beliefs that emphasize the right of women to...