Isabel Tavora

Female employment, labour market institutions and gender culture in Portugal

This article explores the exceptional characteristics of female employment in Portugal, drawing on comparative and historical analysis to reveal the emergence of a dual-earner family model. This involved low-wage full-time work for both men and women, while the traditional gender culture was largely maintained. Case study findings from two female-dominated industries (hospitality and clothing manufacturing) show how gender inequality within the full-time employment model is produced and implemented at industry level. We discuss the role of trade unions and employers in shaping these employment practices and in negotiating adjustments in the light of increasing competitive pressures. The article concludes by identifying the implications for theoretical conceptualizations of gender and employment.

Continuity and Change in Joint Regulation in Europe: Structural Reforms and Collective Bargaining in Manufacturing

This article introduces seven national studies which examine the impact of austerity measures on collective bargaining in manufacturing in the European Union (EU) countries most affected by the crisis. We explore the changing dynamics in the relationships between domestic actors in the period leading up to the crisis and the influence of supranational actors thereafter. Austerity measures have undermined the structure, process, content and outcomes of collective bargaining, though the nature and degree of changes are conditioned by path-dependent factors of each national system.

Labour market regulation and collective bargaining in Portugal during the crisis: Continuity and change

This article examines the changes to employment regulation in Portugal during the sovereign debt crisis and assesses their impact on collective bargaining in manufacturing. The changes were wide-ranging and had a negative immediate impact on the process and outcome of bargaining. While this is consistent with the experience of other EU member states in similar circumstances, the changes in Portugal continued the pre-crisis path of reform. Despite significant corrosion and weakening of collective bargaining, there were also signs of resilience. Nevertheless, prospects for a renewed regulatory role for collective bargaining still appear uncertain. We offer some explanations for the distinctive experience in Portugal.