Since the COVID-19 epidemic, remote work adoption has increased significantly across Europe (EU), with the Netherlands leading the way.
Eurostat estimates that in 2023 22% of EU citizens aged between 15 and 64 will be engaged in remote working. This reflects a change in patterns of work as well disparities across member states.
Out of 22% EU workers who work remotely, data shows that 9% do so on a regular basis and 13% occasionally.
The trend towards flexible work arrangements has increased by eight points since the beginning of 2019, just before the Pandemic.
Statistics show that there are significant differences between EU member states.
The Netherlands is the leader with 51.9% working remote at least partially.
Sweden, Iceland, Norway, and Finland are all close behind (45.3%), as is Iceland.
Germany and Italy report lower acceptance of remote work, while Spain and Italy are below 15%.
Only 3% of the working population in Romania and Bulgaria is engaged in remote jobs.
Why is remote work so popular?
Remote work adoption is affected by a number of factors. These include the level of digitalization and tertiarization in a nation’s economy.
The term tertiarization describes the transition from the primary sector (agriculture) to secondary sector (manufacturing), which offers jobs that are more conducive to teleworking.
The digitalization of the workplace is also important. Nations with more advanced technology infrastructures will be better able to make remote working a reality.
Businesses are more likely to adopt remote working policies in countries that have robust technological frameworks. This leads to higher rates of telework.
In the Netherlands and Sweden, the high adoption rate of telework can be attributed their progressive labor law and strong focus on work-life integration.
The two countries have created a conducive environment to remote working through legislation that is effective and health initiatives designed to improve employee wellbeing.
The focus on teleworking not only eases the transition but boosts workplace satisfaction and overall productivity.
Eastern Europe: Challenges and Opportunities
The lower rates of telework in Eastern Europe, on the other hand, highlight several issues.
Remote work may be hampered by issues such as a lack of digital infrastructure or a low degree of economic tertiarization.
The lack of policies that encourage telework and the limited digital access in Romania and Bulgaria further complicates adapting workforce practices.
Eurostat data shows that remote working is becoming more accepted in the EU. However, there are varying degrees of acceptance amongst member states.
The increase in Teleworking is a reflection of broader social shifts caused by the Pandemic. It also highlights the importance of infrastructure and economic structures in determining employment behavior.
Understanding regional differences is crucial to ensuring that remote workers have equal access to job opportunities.
Teleworking is a growing trend in Europe, and it presents challenges as well as opportunities.
The post Remote Work soars across the EU, with Netherlands leading at 51.9% may change as new information becomes available.
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