Women in the labour force in Sweden and Germany between 1960 and 2019 : A comparative study on women’s job quality

Abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to provide a comparative and holistic perspective on women’s employment between 1960 and 2019 in Sweden and Germany. For this purpose, in contrast to previous literature labour market changes and the quality of women’s work are considered. This paper adopts a quantitative, comparative case study approach with a longitudinal dimension. A three-part analysis is carried out, each analysis covering a period of 15 to 20 years. This thesis argues that the quality of women's work has undergone some significant changes in both Sweden and Germany throughout the period from 1960 to 2019 and has been impacted by labour market changes. It shows the need for a holistic approach focusing on the development of the quality of women's work to understand the evolution of female employment.