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Labour market decisions are supported by scientifically sound advice as in hardly any other policy field. The IAB makes a central contribution to this. We research the labour market in its entirety from the point of view of different disciplines and in the societal context. Besides, results also have to be generated and made available at short notice in some cases. This is all the more so because our research is also strongly focused on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of the war against Ukraine on the economy, labour market and refugee migration. Here you can find a thematic overview of our research.

ID picture for the IAB topic "Structural Change and the Labour Market"

Labour Market in Structural Change

The economy and the labour market are subject to constant change. The IAB analyses and forecasts how overarching transformation processes and events affect the labour market.

ID picture for the IAB topic "Labour Market Policy"

Labour Market Policy

In this field, the IAB casts a light on the instruments and regulations of labour market policy, with an emphasis on its implementation and effects, and how these effects come about.

ID picture for the IAB topic "The Firms‘ Side of Work"

The Firms‘ Side of Work

In this field, the IAB studies companies’ demand for labour, the corporate culture of companies and the working conditions of employees.

ID picture for the IAB topic "Education and the Labour Market"

Education and the Labour Market

Labour market opportunities and risks are closely related to education and qualifications. The IAB investigates these interrelationships and considers the acquisition and utilisation of education and training over the entire life course.

ID Picture for the IAB topic "Labour Force Participation, Poverty, and Social Policy"

Labour Force Participation, Poverty, and Social Policy

The IAB analyzes the development of life situations, life contexts, and life courses, as well as participation opportunities and risks. The unemployed, basic income recipients and people on low wages or with limited participation in working life are of particular interest in this respect.

ID Picture for the IAB topic "Research Data and Methods"

Research Data and Methods

The IAB combines methodological basic research with application-oriented labour market and occupational research. This includes the collection and processing of various data and making them available to the international research community.

ID Picture for the IAB topic "Macroeconomy"

Macroeconomy

The IAB explores the labour market from a broad perspective, in particular looking at supply and demand, the way in which the market functions, the role of labour market institutions, internationalisation processes and the factors that influence labour market activity at the macroeconomic level. This provides the basis for forecasts and scenario analyses regarding future trends.

ID Picture for the IAB topic "International and Regional Labour Markets"

International and Regional Labour Markets

In this field, the IAB brings together all geographical aspects of employment research. In addition to the analysis of the differences between and within regions, this includes matters relating to migration and integration, studies into the effects of globalisation and Europeanisation, and international comparisons