THE BOOK
Unemployment poses a key challenge to many OECD countries. This thorough analysis of the European labor market shows how high levels of market regulation critically affect unemployment rates and the performance of the labor market.
The book reviews insider-outsider models, search-theory, and the influence of hiring and firing costs on equilibrium employment. It presents empirical evidence of each model and describes the relative importance of the identified rigidities as a determinant of high unemployment in Europe. A case study then analyzes the unemployment situation in Germany and critically discusses recent labor market reforms.
"A sober and unprejudiced analysis of the European labor market and its weaknesses. According to the author's convincing argument, substantial efforts are still needed
in the areas of institutional reform and incentive-based labor market policy.
A must read for political and economic decision-makers."
— Prof. Dr. Klaus F. Zimmermann; Director;
German Institute for Economic Research (DIW).
"A superb piece, well documented, comprehensive and with many useful insights and policy recommendations, on one of the most important topics in Europe. A must for all those interested in unemployment and labor market issues."
— Javier Santiso; Director;
OECD Development Centre, France.
"An accurate, broad and balanced assessment of the
empirical evidence supporting unemployment models."
— David Grubb; Labor Market Specialist;
OECD, France. |
