Examines the view that European unemployment is due to the inability to manage shifts in demand for low-skilled labor because of wage rigidities and social benefits. Suggests that without economic growth and better employment opportunities, it is difficult to advance European labor market reform. (JOW)

The author examines the impact of "high-tech" industries on labor markets, the division of labor and the organization of work, and the policy options open to societies for dealing with the effects. (CT)

Focuses on three assumptions: employment is central to social integration; the demand for goods and labor is becoming more individualized; and the state continues to play a major role on work and employment. Outlines frameworks for the future of labor and work in France. (JOW)

Presents the main features needed for labor statistics to reflect the respective situations for women and men in the labor market. Identifies topics to be covered and detail needed for significant distinctions to emerge. Explains how the choice of measurement method and data presentation can influence the final result. (Author/JOW)

Flexible employment has accounted for more than half of Silicon Valley's total employment growth in the past 10 years. Flexible employment has become a permanent strategy that may create insecurity for low-skilled workers; it also leads to a high turnover rate among highly skilled workers. (JOW)

Reviews developments in the shortened work week in the Federal Republic of Germany. Discusses collective agreements and examines the methods used to implement the shorter working week at enterprise level and possible developments in the reunited Germany. (JOW)

Includes "Struggle against Unemployment" (Godfrey); "Measuring Informal Sector Employment in Pakistan" (Bekkers, Stoffers); "Major Changes Underway in China's Industrial Relations" (Zhu); "Reflections on Role of African Employers' Organizations in Tripartism and Social Dialogue" (Etukudo); and…

Data indicate that women's experience in the labor market is substantially different from men's. Women work in different sectors for fewer hours; women have lower rates of education and literacy; and women are more likely to be unemployed, underemployed, or outside the labor force. (JOW)

Considers the distinction between voluntary and involuntary unemployment by analyzing six behavioral characteristics attributed to groups of workers suspected of indulging in the former, and the labor market mechanisms supposedly encouraging them. (Author/CT)

Explores the impact of employment promotion companies initially intended to bridge job shortages and help German workers find unsubsidized employment. Considers whether they contributed to labor market restructuring or distorted competition with private companies. (SK)

Examines the advantages and disadvantages of partial retirement--the transitional period between full-time employment and complete retirement--including easing the transition, labor market effects, and financial implications for social security systems and employers. Reviews partial retirement policies in eight countries and concludes that there…

Analysis of data from 200 occupations 1970-90 shows that one-third of all workers in Finland, Norway, and Sweden would have to change occupations to eliminate gender segregation. Despite Nordic nations' commitment to equality, women often work in female-dominated or part-time occupations and typically earn less. (SK)

A summary of evidence from a study of payment structures in six industries in three local labor markets in the United Kingdom is used to show that the conditions under which labor is made available exert an influence on wages that is relatively independent of the skill, experience, and effort of the workers concerned. (Author/CT)

Relates temporary employment subsidies (TES) to other forms of assistance to industry and examines the three main classes of TES that have been developed: those concerned with job retention, job creation, and investment inducements. Considers possible limitations in TES use and discusses the economic rationales advanced for them. (CT)

Despite concerns that globalization will increase unemployment and wage inequality, drive down wages and labor standards, and threaten national policy autonomy, it is clear that national policies still determine employment levels and labor standards. However, the need to protect those damaged by globalization still exists. (SK)