Research
Working papers
Labour market concentration and gender gaps
with Eva Moreno Galbis (AMSE), Sylvie Blasco (Le Mans University) and Jeremy Tanguy (Université Savoie Mont Blanc).
Revise and Resubmit, Journal of Human Resources.
Abstract: This paper analyses how labour market concentration affects gender inequalities in wages, hirings, and working conditions. While theoretical models predict that firms facing low labour market competition will be able to extract a monopsony rent from workers who have lower geographical mobility, very specific skills, or specific working conditions’ requirements, there is limited empirical evidence on this topic. Using French matched employer -employee data together with data on working conditions and a new definition of commuting zones that takes into account gender differences in mobility, we find that concentration in a given commuting zone and occupation increases the gender wage gap and decreases the share of women among new hires. Concentration is also associated with less job security on average and increases the gender gap in terms of job flexibility. Women with children and women of childbearing age are particularly affected by the increase in firms’ monopsonistic power.
Paternity leave and parents’ labour supply in Europe
Revise and Resubmit, Review of the Economics of the Household.
Abstract: Father-specific leaves have become a common tool in developed countries to address gender inequalities that arise after childbirth, but it is unclear how parents respond to these policies. These reforms are expected to facilitate the re-entry of mothers in the labour market after childbirth by changing the time allocation within the household or by leading to more egalitarian gender norms. In this paper, I test this hypothesis by studying the impact of paternity leave introduction on mothers’ and fathers’ labour supply using a Difference-in-Differences strategy and data from the European Labour Force Survey for thirteen countries. I find a positive effect on women’s labour supply shortly after childbirth, with no persistent effects when the child grows older. Men’s labour supply was essentially unaffected by the reforms, but their probability of having a high-skilled occupation slightly decreased.
Childcare expansion, fertility and marriage stability: evidence from French national plans
Abstract: In response to concerns about low fertility rates in Europe, one solution proposed by policymakers is the provision of affordable childcare for parents. However, the existing literature presents mixed evidence regarding its effectiveness, and such policies may have unintended consequences for family structure. This paper empirically investigates the relationship between collective childcare provision, fertility, and family dynamics. I exploit the staggered expansion of childcare coverage in France, driven by a series of national plans, using rich administrative and social security data on childcare facilities. I find that an increase in childcare supply does not significantly affect fertility decisions, marriage, divorce, or separation rates. However, it is associated with a decreased probability of entering into cohabitation.
Work in progress
Pension Reforms and Labour Supply in Europe
with Margherita Agnoletto (University of Turin) and Francesco Devicienti (University of Turin).
Johanne Bacheron 