Germany: the federal government awards best work-life balance employment schemes

The names of the companies who won the "Erfolgsfaktor Familie 2008" contest (see our dispatch No. 080082) were revealed, on May 29, 2008, by the Federal Minister for Families. Created in 2005, this public initiative sponsored by Angela Merkel and the main social partners, is also presented as a network to exchange experience. With 500 applicants – i.e. 40% more than in 2005, the 2008 award shows companies' growing interest in policies which make recruitment easier, favor women's employment and low absenteeism rates. (Ref. 080460)