Examines 67 IMF Article IV consultations in 27 EU member states between 2008 and 2011, and shows that there is an overwhelming emphasis on fiscal consolidation, reduction of social expenditures, and measures that weaken the bargaining power and income of labour, and make it difficult to promote...

Based on a survey of the literature, assesses the strength of the evidence regarding the effects of labour market institutions and regulations on unemployment. Considers the effects of employment protection, trade union density, bargaining coordination, unemployment benefits, the labour tax...