The effects of COVID-19 on job security and unemployment in Portugal
International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy
ISSN: 0144-333X
Article publication date: 25 September 2020
Issue publication date: 2 December 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This short communication aims to explore and synthesize the main effects of COVID-19 on the labor market in Portugal regarding the dimensions related to job security and unemployment.
Design/methodology/approach
Field research is used to identify and understand the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the labor market in Portugal. Data from the National Institute of Statistics of Portugal are analyzed and compared with artifacts published in the field, which allow us to explore the impact of this phenomenon from multiple perspectives.
Findings
The findings indicate that the impact on the labor market is very asymmetric regarding geographical regions, sectors of activity, age groups and the nature of labor ties. The most touristic regions and those with a strong dependence on the exterior are the most affected. Young people and women with unstable employment relationships and in temporary work situations are also particularly vulnerable.
Originality/value
This study focuses on an emerging area with a strong impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the labor market. This study seeks both to identify challenges in the Portuguese labor market and to discuss measures that should be taken to mitigate their effects, such as reforming the social security model, the role of teleworking or the more balanced development of the territory.
Keywords
Citation
Almeida, F. and Santos, J.D. (2020), "The effects of COVID-19 on job security and unemployment in Portugal", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 40 No. 9/10, pp. 995-1003. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSSP-07-2020-0291
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited