Zero-hours Contracts in a Frictional Labour Market

• 成果类型: Article; Early Access
• 署名作者: Dolado, Juan J.; Lale, Etienne; Turon, Helene
• 署名单位: Universidad Carlos III de Madrid; Centre for Economic Policy Research - UK; York University - Canada; Universite de Montreal
• 刊物名称: ECONOMIC JOURNAL
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0013-0133
• DOI: 10.1093/ej/ueag012
• 发表日期: 2026
• 关键词: alternative work arrangements; jobs

摘要

We develop an equilibrium search model of the coexistence of regular and flexible work arrangements, calibrated to evaluate the UK's zero-hours contract. Our findings reveal mixed equilibrium and welfare effects. Zero-hours contracts stimulate job creation among firms facing highly volatile business conditions, increasing total employment but potentially reducing regular jobs. Simultaneously, zero-hours contracts boost labour force participation by attracting individuals who prefer flexible work schedules, which may create greater congestion for regular jobs in a random search environment. Our calibration demonstrates that the macroeconomic consequences of alternative work arrangements depend crucially on the job-creation margin and on workers' valuation of flexibility.