RUSSIAN LABOR-MARKET IN TRANSITION

This article uses official statistics and survey data to analyze the nature and scope of change in the Russian labor market over the last decade. Analysis of employment and unemployment patterns suggests that while the overall rate of unemployment has been much lower than anticipated, the incidence of unemployment was relatively high in the central, northwestern, and north Caucasus regions in both 1991 and 1992. Women, youths, and pensioners seeking employment appear to dominate the numbers of unemployed; however, the duration of unemployment is significantly less for younger members of the workforce. Survey data are used to evaluate whether select economic and social factors typically associated with employment decisions by households and firms have changed significantly over the last decade and a half. Pre- and postperestroika surveys, as well as sample characteristics, are described. Results suggest little change in firms' decisions regarding overstaffing and firing and in households' job search activities. Significant differences appear in pre- and postperestroika responses to questions on time theft and job choice, as well as factors most (or least) important to career advancement. Results tend to suggest that a growing number of people believe that for Russian women opportunities to hold responsible positions in economic and political life are diminishing. Concluding remarks are offered. -from Author