The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the adoption of digital and remote work practices, leading to significant changes in societal attitudes towards this type of work. This shift has granted employees greater control over their working hours and the freedom to choose their place of residence. Moreover, it has allowed employers to tap into previously inactive or marginalized segments of the labor market, as these individuals value the flexibility of remote work and the reduction in commuting requirements. Given European markets’ aging population and labor shortages, remote work can activate the workforce, reduce social inequalities, and support local labor market development. The REWORK project aims to evaluate the influence of remote work on the activation of women, a key demographic for the labor market, and the spatial mobility of young families.
Additionally, the project aims to examine the potential implications for regional economic growth. The newly acquired primary data will contribute novel insights that can help shape labor market policies and regional development strategies in the analyzed countries. Promoting women’s professional engagement is a priority and key objective of the EU’s economic policy. Increased female labor force participation fosters diversity and empowers women to support themselves, their families, and their communities, thereby improving living standards and reducing reliance on welfare systems. Furthermore, the technological and social changes associated with remote work can serve as drivers of regional development and mitigate the negative consequences of urbanization. Therefore, gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying women’s inclusion into the labor market and the role of remote work in local labor market development will shed light on the broader societal benefits of the digital revolution.
