Work sharing as an alternative to layoffs

Abstract

"This chapter is structured as follows: first we take a look at the German economy with a special focus on the labour market (Section 2). In Section 3, we explain Kurzarbeit, the German work-sharing scheme, as one important instrument used to cushion the economic and financial crisis of the Great Recession of 2008-09. In Section 4 we present some descriptive information on the use of work sharing at establishment level and the use of training during periods of work sharing. In Section 5 we provide an empirical analysis of the determinants of the use of work sharing and its intensity, and in Section 6 we estimate the related employment effects. The final section draws some conclusions about the 'safeguarding effect' of work sharing." (Text excerpt, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Bellmann, L., Crimmann, A., Gerner, H. & Wießner, F. (2013): Work sharing as an alternative to layoffs. Lessons from the German experience during the crisis. In: N. Ghosheh & J. C. Messenger (Hrsg.) (2013): Work sharing during the Great Recession : new developments and beyond, p. 24-61.