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Trends in labour force participation of older men: Examining the influence of policy reforms, normative change and deindustrialization in the Netherlands, 1992–2009

Author

Listed:
  • Mark Visser
  • Maurice Gesthuizen
  • Gerbert Kraaykamp
  • Maarten HJ Wolbers

Abstract

This study examines trends in labour force participation of older men (55–64 years) in the Netherlands between 1992 and 2009 using Dutch Labour Force Survey data. In this period, the share of early retirees and disability recipients steadily decreased, while labour force participation of Dutch older men increased. The authors characterize these developments both theoretically and empirically in terms of policy reforms, normative change and deindustrialization. More specifically, institutional early retirement arrangements were abolished due to the rising costs associated with the ageing of the Dutch population. Older men, therefore, became more likely to be employed, unemployed or disabled compared to early retired between 1992 and 2009. The authors also find that deindustrialization increases the chances of employment for older men with a university degree. Moreover, a shrinking industry sector is particularly harmful for the lowest educated older men, as their likelihood to be in unemployment increases compared to early retirement.

Suggested Citation

  • Mark Visser & Maurice Gesthuizen & Gerbert Kraaykamp & Maarten HJ Wolbers, 2016. "Trends in labour force participation of older men: Examining the influence of policy reforms, normative change and deindustrialization in the Netherlands, 1992–2009," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 37(3), pages 425-447, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:37:y:2016:i:3:p:425-447
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X14546239
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Aart-Jan Riekhoff, 2019. "De-standardisation and differentiation of retirement trajectories in the context of extended working lives in the Netherlands," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 40(4), pages 890-912, November.

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