What is the part-time trap?

"Part-time work trap" is a term that refers to the situation in which part-time work, particularly by women, is so ingrained in Dutch society that it prevents them from working more hours or working full-time. The Netherlands is a leader in part-time work within the EU, with women working an average of 28 hours per week compared to 39 hours by men.

The part-time work trap arises from a combination of factors, such as social norms that assign women the primary responsibility for care and household, a labour market that almost automatically offers part-time jobs in certain sectors, and a lack of public facilities and arrangements that support full-time work by both partners. Moreover, a high marginal tax burden ensures that working extra is financially unattractive, causing women to remain stuck in the part-time work trap.

This situation makes it difficult for women to advance in their careers and contributes to the unequal distribution of work and care in the Netherlands.