Working from Home in Russia: What Has Changed over Two Decades

Relevance . The development of digital communication and connectivity technologies has significantly influenced labor markets in many countries. One of the consequences of technological progress in this area has been a shift in the geography of job performance, including an increase in the share of people working from home. The COVID-19 pandemic further contributed to the normalization of these processes, forcing a significant portion of workers to switch to remote employment. This article is dedicated to the study of this phenomenon in the Russian labor market from 2006 to 2023. Methods. Based on data from representative population surveys (RLMS-HSE), the scale of remote work in Russia is assessed, the composition of remote workers is described, and major changes in their profile are identified. Using logistic regression methods, the authors identify factors associated with a higher probability of this type of employment. Findings . The authors show that the key determinants are primarily characteristics of the workplace, the individual’s education level, gender, and health status. The results of econometric regressions also indicate an increase in regular remote employment in Russia and a decrease in irregular remote work. Practical significance . The results suggest that the spread of remote work formats could help increase labor force participation and, at least partially, meet the demand for labor in the context of its shortage in Russia.