Research

Publications

Paternity leave and parents’ labour supply in Europe

Revise and Resubmit, Review of the Economics of the Household.

Abstract: Father-specific leave has become an increasingly common policy instrument in developed countries to address gender inequalities arising after childbirth. While a growing literature examines the labour market consequences of parental leave policies, evidence on the effects of father-specific leave remains limited to country-specific studies. In this paper, I estimate the impact of paternity leave introduction on mothers’ and fathers’ employment using a Difference-in-Differences strategy and data from the European Labour Force Survey covering fourteen countries. I find a positive effect on women’s employment when they have very young children, with no persistent effects as the child grows older. Men’s employment is essentially unaffected by the reforms. These findings indicate that father-specific leave can temporarily increase mothers’ labour market participation but does not lead to lasting changes.

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.

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).