Inequality in employment trajectories and their socio-economic consequences during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany

• DOI: 10.31235/osf.io/m95df
• Publication Date: 2021-01-19T12:16:32Z
• Authors: Katja Moehring; Andreas Weiland; Maximiliane Reife...; Elias Naumann; Alexander Wenz; Tobias Rettig; Ulrich Krieger; Marina Fikel; Carina Cornesse; Annelies G. Blom
• Keywords: Pandemic; Job loss; Job security; Temporary work

This paper evaluates the inequalities in employment trajectories during first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown Germany. We assess individual-level panel data collected weekly between 20 March and 25 June (N=2,297), which allows us to examine risks of short-time work, furlough, job loss, as well changes working on-site from home. Using sequence analysis, we detect typical patterns analyse how these vary socio-demographic groups. Finally, relate types income, subjective security (compared values January February 2020), infection risks. Our results show clear gradients risks: low-wage workers were severely affected by furlough while highly qualified employees able work Furthermore, contrast previous crises, service sector female more work; however, its timing duration differs compared male manufacturing. Income loss was pronounced among those who became unemployed continuously short-term everybody—including home—experienced a significant reduction whose hours or location have not changed. The risk only increased for individuals changed on-site.