Title

Part-time work in the Dutch welfare state: the ideal combination of work and care?

Authors

Yerkes, Mara

Abstract

The Netherlands is often heralded for the success of its 'part-time model' of employment. Yet the supposed success of this model raises the question whether the Dutch part-time variant is the ideal gender-neutral policy approach. A comparative, longitudinal analysis of employment transitions in the Netherlands and the UK shows that while the Dutch part-time model may be unique, its outcomes are not. In both cases, gender inequality in employment transitions is evident. Gender inequality is apparent in Dutch care policy as well. Moreover, part-time work is quickly becoming the long-term norm for women's employment, even for women without care responsibilities.

Subjects

NETHERLANDS; UNITED Kingdom; PART-time employment; GENDER inequality; WELFARE state; WOMEN'S employment; SEX discrimination in employment; PUBLIC welfare; NETHERLANDS social policy; PUBLIC welfare policy

Publication

Policy & Politics, 2009, Vol 37, Issue 4, p535

ISSN

0305-5736

Publication type

Academic Journal

DOI

10.1332/030557309X435510