Sociology Plus
Casualization of the Workforce Definition
The casualisation of the workforce refers to the growing proportion of employment characterised by workers being engaged on a part-time or temporary basis rather than through permanent, full-time contracts. This trend reflects a fundamental shift in labour relations and market structures, moving away from traditional employment models.
Theoretical Context
The expansion of casual labour is intrinsically linked to the development of post-Fordism, an economic era characterised by flexible production methods and increased fluidity in employment arrangements. This flexibility facilitates the growth of a dual labour market, which divides the workforce into distinct segments, typically categorised as core workers and periphery workers.