Lars Kolbeinstveit argues that the criticism of part-time workers being lazy is misplaced, highlighting issues of power dynamics and the need to support labor participation.
In a recent article, Lars Kolbeinstveit from the Civita think tank critiques the political party Rødt, which he feels focuses disproportionately on those not participating in the workforce. Kolbeinstveit emphasizes that the narrative surrounding part-time workers often overlooks their desire and need to work more, especially among populations such as women in healthcare and retail, who face systemic barriers preventing them from increasing their working hours. He suggests that instead of labeling part-time workers as lazy, the focus should shift to the structural issues impacting their ability to work more hours.
Kolbeinstveit posits that the discussions surrounding part-time work extend beyond issues of individual work ethic; they delve into deeper matters of societal power dynamics. He notes that the debate about who contributes to the economy—full-time versus part-time workers—is rife with misunderstandings, and those labeled as 'lazy' may, in fact, be individuals eager to work more if only systemic issues were addressed. Furthermore, he underscores that policies aimed at increasing labor participation should not just focus on welfare recipients but also support those who are already part of the workforce yet seeking more hours.
The implications of Kolbeinstveit's arguments urge a reconsideration of how society views part-time work and the people engaged in it. With over 66,000 Norwegians reportedly desiring more work, the societal narrative needs to adapt to ensure a more inclusive framework that empowers all workers, regardless of their employment status. By reframing these issues, there is potential for significant policy changes that could lead to a more equitable labor market.
