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A Microeconometric Evaluation of the Active Labour Market Policy in Switzerland

Author

Listed:
  • Michael Gerfin

    (University of Bern)

  • Michael Lechner

    (University of St Gallen, Swiss Institute for International Economics and Applied Economic Research (SIAW))

Abstract

In the late 1990s, Switzerland introduced an ambitious active labour market policy (ALMP) encompassing several programmes. We evaluate their effects on the individual employment probability using unusually informative data from administrative records. Using a matching estimator for multiple programmes, we find positive effects for one particular programme unique to the Swiss ALMP. It consists of a wage subsidy for temporary jobs in the regular labour market that would otherwise not be taken up by the unemployed. We also find negative effects for traditional employment programmes operated in sheltered labour markets. For training courses, the results are mixed. Copyright Royal Economic Society 2002

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Gerfin & Michael Lechner, 2002. "A Microeconometric Evaluation of the Active Labour Market Policy in Switzerland," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 112(482), pages 854-893, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecj:econjl:v:112:y:2002:i:482:p:854-893
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C14 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Semiparametric and Nonparametric Methods: General
    • C40 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - General
    • J64 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Unemployment: Models, Duration, Incidence, and Job Search
    • J68 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Public Policy

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