PhD defence: Wendkuni Ouedraogo

Dynamique de la population et marché du travail 

Examiners

Théophile Azomahou, Université Clermont Auvergne, PhD supervisor
Phu Nguyen-Van, Université Paris-Nanterre, Examiner
Jean-Louis Combes, Université Clermont Auvergne, Examiner
Blaise Gnimassoun, Université Nancy Lorraine, Examiner
Mary-Françoise Renard, Université Clermont Auvergne, Examiner
Salamata Loaba, Université Thomas Sankara, Examiner
Ekrame Boubtane, Cour des Comptes, PhD supervisor

Abstract

This dissertation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between population dynamics and the labor market and provide policy responses. Additionally, it provides evidence-based policy recommendations. Through a rigorous examination of the existing literature, as well as the use of statistical models and case studies, this study aims to provide insightful and practical policy proposals that can help address the issues and challenges arising from the complex interplay between population dynamics and the labor market. The study begins with a time series analysis of the short and long-term relationships between fertility rate and women’s participation in the labor market in many African countries. We found, for example, that in Kenya, women’s participation in the labor market is more sensitive to changes in fertility rate as compared to Ghana. Our research analysis also indicates that the rate (speed) of adjustment to variations of the variables in Ghana, Kenya, and Cote d’Ivoire is relatively low. Through Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) of African countries, the thesis also examines the changes in fertility rates across generations, looking at both mothers and daughters and investigates the factors that may influence these changes. The results reveal significant variations in fertility rates among different generations of women. Specifically, the fertility rate of daughters tends to be lower than that of their mothers, suggesting a shift in attitudes towards childbearing and family size across different generations. Additionally, we found a low effect between the fertility rates of mothers and daughters. This may imply a high level of intergenerational mobility, where daughters are free to make their own choices regarding family planning and childbearing. Data on adolescent fertility rates reveals that Africa has the highest fertility rate. This is a matter of concern because most of these adolescents are still in school, and early childbearing can have a negative impact on their education, which, in turn, can hinder their future prospects. Therefore, we assumed that identifying the fertility time preferences of young women and promoting delayed childbearing can help young women complete their education, acquire skills, and enter the workforce, which can have a positive impact on their socioeconomic status. Migration is one of the factors that affect population structure in host countries. In the last chapter, we analyzed the mobility across generations in education and occupation between native people and the descendants of migrants in France, taking into account the impact of their place of residence. Data from a large survey revealed that the descendants of migrants are more likely to continue living in the same area as their parents when they reach adulthood. Additionally, the results show that the residential context is more significant for the descendants of migrants than for the native population. 

Keywords

Population, Education, Gender, Intergenerational mobility, Socio-professional status, Fertility.