In Germany, the accord between industry and government to keep short-time workers on the payrolls has had a similar effect.

ECONOMIST: The euro-area economy

The short-time arrangements mean that workers stay in employment and keep their skills fresh.

ECONOMIST: Rebalancing the world economy: Germany

France's notoriously burdensome labour regulations deter hiring full-time workers and ensure a strong demand for staff on short-term contracts.

ECONOMIST: Manpower