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The Perverse Effects of Partial Labour Market Reform: fixed--Term Contracts in France

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  • O Blanchard
  • A Landier

Abstract

We argue that the effects of a partial reform of employment protection by allowing firms to hire workers on fixed--term contracts may be perverse. The main effect may be high turnover in entry--level jobs, leading to higher, not lower, unemployment. Even if unemployment falls, workers may be worse off, going through many spells of unemployment and entry--level jobs, before obtaining a regular job. Considering French data for young workers since the early 1980s, we conclude that the reforms have substantially increased turnover, without a substantial reduction in unemployment duration. If anything, the effect on their welfare appears to have been negative. Copyright 2002 Royal Economic Society

Suggested Citation

  • O Blanchard & A Landier, 2002. "The Perverse Effects of Partial Labour Market Reform: fixed--Term Contracts in France," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 112(480), pages 214-244, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecj:econjl:v:112:y:2002:i:480:p:f214-f244
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