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Works councils and absenteeism of apprentices: An empirical analysis

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  • Harald Pfeifer

Abstract

This article examines the influence of works councils on apprentices’ absence from the workplace in Germany. The analysis draws on merged administrative and survey data that include information about the cumulated days that apprentices are absent from work due to sickness. Regression results imply that the existence of a works council in a firm significantly reduces apprentices’ absence. However, split-sample regressions show that this is predominantly the case in firms with high absence rates. Overall, the results suggest that works councils exercise their legally anchored ‘voice’ function in the German apprenticeship system.

Suggested Citation

  • Harald Pfeifer, 2020. "Works councils and absenteeism of apprentices: An empirical analysis," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 41(3), pages 672-692, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:41:y:2020:i:3:p:672-692
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X17734295
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    References listed on IDEAS

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