(A-)typical and (in-)secure? Social protection and “non-standard” forms of employment in Europe.

Atypical forms of employment (part-time work, mini-jobs, fixed-term contracts and solo self-employment) have gained in importance overall in recent years in many European countries. They are often part of an irregular career pattern and carry a high risk of unemployment. In a 6-country comparison (Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Denmark and Poland) we consider whether and in what way national social protection laws cover the various forms of non-standard employment and the specific risks these entail. Significant variations were found in coverage standards and practices between countries as well as substantial variability within countries in their responses to different types of non-standard employment. A need for further and improved coordination of both social legislation and tax law is identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]