Would you expect the natural rate of unemployment to remain the same within one country over the long run of several decades?

The natural rate of unemployment (also known as the non-accelerating inflation rate of unemployment or NAIRU) is the unemployment rate at which inflation is stable. In other words, it is the level of unemployment that neither causes inflation to rise nor fall. The natural rate of unemployment may include frictional unemployment (unemployment due to workers being between jobs) and structural unemployment (unemployment due to mismatches between jobseekers' skills and available jobs).

There are several factors that can affect the natural rate of unemployment over time. These factors include: 1. Demographics: Changes in the age distribution and education level of the population can affect the natural rate of unemployment. 2. Changes in the labor market: Technological advancements, globalization, and changes in the workforce structure can lead to shifts in the types of jobs available, which may affect the skills required and cause structural unemployment. 3. Labor market policies and institutions: Government policies, labor unions, and social norms can affect the flexibility of the labor market and the ease with which workers find new jobs. 4. Economic shocks: External events like recessions and economic booms can temporarily impact the natural rate of unemployment.

Given the factors listed in Step 2, it seems unlikely that the natural rate of unemployment would remain constant over the long run. Demographics, labor markets, and policies change over time, leading to shifts in the structure and conditions of the economy. As these changes occur, the natural rate of unemployment may rise or fall in response to the changing economic environment.

In conclusion, it is unlikely that the natural rate of unemployment would remain the same within one country over the long run of several decades. Due to changes in demographics, labor markets, policies, and external factors over time, the natural rate of unemployment is likely to change in order to maintain stable inflation conditions in the economy.