The bar chart illustrates the percentage of unemployed graduates aged 20-24 in a European country between January 2008 and October 2009. Overall, it is clear that unemployment rates for both men and women were volatile throughout the period, with men consistently recording higher figures than their female counterparts. Both groups reached their peak unemployment levels in October 2009.
In early 2008, 10% of male graduates were unemployed, compared to 7.5% of women. These figures dipped to 7% and 6% respectively by April 2008, remaining stable until July 2008. However, a sharp increase occurred in October 2008, with male unemployment rising to 16% and female unemployment to 11%.
At the start of 2009, the rate for men stood at 12%, while women saw a rate of 9%. By April 2009, male unemployment remained at 12%, whereas female unemployment dropped to 6%. Following a slight decrease in July 2009, both groups experienced a significant surge by October 2009. Male unemployment reached a period high of 22%, while female unemployment also peaked at 14%. Throughout the entire timeframe, the gap between male and female unemployment remained evident, particularly during the final quarter of 2009.