Nordic Lessons for an Inclusive Recovery? Responses to the Impact of COVID-19 on the Labour Market
This report examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Nordic labour markets and the associated policy responses undertaken in the areas of unemployment benefits, job retention schemes, active labour market policies and skill development policies. The report discusses the details of these policy measures across Nordic countries and draws out the main lessons learned from their response to the crisis. Finally, the report provides a set of key recommendations in each policy area to enable Nordic countries to build more inclusive and resilient labour markets in the post-pandemic period.
The role of Public Employment Services and active labour market policies during the COVID‑19 crisis and recovery
Active labour market policies (ALMPs) and Public Employment Services (PES) have an essential role in assisting jobseekers and people at risk of losing their job on their journey back to quality employment and helping employers in finding employees with the right skills. In times of crisis, this role becomes particularly acute. This chapter explores the contribution of PES and ALMPs to the Nordic labour market policy response to the COVID-19 pandemic. First, an overview is provided of trends in the reliance on PES by jobseekers and public expenditure on ALMPs in Nordic and OECD countries. Second, the chapter describes how Nordic countries altered PES operating models and adapted their ALMP provision during the COVID‑19 crisis and the recovery. Institutional set-up of Nordic ALMP provision is then examined, including the role played by social partners. Finally, it highlights the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of ALMPs and tools used by PES.
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