Activatable Labour Market Potentials and “Hidden Unemployment” in Austria

Stefan Angel, Benjamin Bittschi, Thomas Horvath, Marion Kogler, Helmut Mahringer

The study offers a literature review as well as a detailed analysis of unused labour force potentials both in the inactive population and among underemployed part-time workers. In addition to the size of these groups, their structure and the reasons for their lack of participation or low participation in the labour force are analysed. Furthermore, a model-based simulation provides an outlook on the development of unused labour force potentials up to the year 2040. It shows that there is considerable potential for additional gainful employment beyond the group of the unemployed. However, in order to make use of this potential, it is necessary to reduce obstacles to employment. Activation strategies must take into account the different needs of the very heterogeneous group of the inactive and part-time employed.

Publications

  • Stefan Angel, Benjamin Bittschi, Thomas Horvath, Marion Kogler, Helmut Mahringer (2023) Aktivierbare Arbeitsmarktpotenziale und “Stille Reserven” in Österreich (Activatable Labour Market Potentials and “Hidden Unemployment” in Austria) - WIFO Studien, Oktober 2023, 90 Seiten - Auftraggeber: Kammer für Arbeiter und Angestellte für Wien [PDF]


  • Organizations: Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO)

  • Funding: This 2023 project is funded by the Austrian Kammer für Arbeiter und Angestellte für Wien