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Inequality in the Impact of the Coronavirus Shock: Evidence from Real Time Surveys

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  • Adams-Prassl, Abigail
  • Boneva, Teodora
  • Rauh, Christopher
  • Golin, Marta

Abstract

We present real time survey evidence from the UK, US and Germany showing that the labor market impacts of COVID-19 differ considerably across countries. Employees in Germany, which has a well-established short-time work scheme, are substantially less likely to be affected by the crisis. Within countries, the impacts are highly unequal and exacerbate existing inequalities. Workers in alternative work arrangements and in occupations in which only a small share of tasks can be done from home are more likely to have reduced their hours, lost their jobs and suffered falls in earnings. Less educated workers and women are more affected by the crisis.

Suggested Citation

  • Adams-Prassl, Abigail & Boneva, Teodora & Rauh, Christopher & Golin, Marta, 2020. "Inequality in the Impact of the Coronavirus Shock: Evidence from Real Time Surveys," CEPR Discussion Papers 14665, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:14665
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Recessions; Inequality; Labor market; Unemployment; Coronavirus;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J21 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Force and Employment, Size, and Structure
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J33 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Compensation Packages; Payment Methods
    • J63 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Turnover; Vacancies; Layoffs

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