The impact of the COVID-19 crisis across different socio-economic groups and the role
of job retention schemes - The case of Switzerland
This paper analyses the impact of the COVID-19 crisis across socio-economic groups
in Switzerland and the role played by its short-time work scheme during the first
year of the crisis until the end of 2020. To this end, it compares changes in hours
worked for different socio-groups in Switzerland and other OECD countries, and then
documents differences across groups in the use of short time work and in the risk
of job loss. Finally, the paper investigates differences between groups of short-time
work participants in terms of the reduction in working time, job search behavior and
the risk of subsequent job loss. The evidence so far suggests that the Swiss short
time work scheme as it operated during the first year of the COVID-19 crisis was fit
for purpose.
Published on January 20, 2022
In series:OECD Social, Employment and Migration Working Papersview more titles