Switzerland sees doubling of part-time male workers since 2000

A study conducted by the University of Zurich and supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation reveals that the proportion of men working part-time in Switzerland has more than doubled since 2000, rising from approximately 10 percent to over 20 percent.

Switzerland maintains one of the highest part-time employment rates in the OECD, ranking second among 38 member states behind the Netherlands. Overall, about 40 percent of the Swiss active population works part-time. However, a significant gender gap persists; according to Federal Statistical Office data for 2025, roughly 60 percent of employed women work part-time, compared to approximately 20 percent of men.

The research, involving sociologist Jan Müller and Professor Youngjoo Cha, analyzed data from 2004 to 2020 to examine the social and occupational factors influencing these decisions. The findings suggest that professional culture plays a major role, particularly in sectors where the traditional model of the male as the primary breadwinner remains dominant.