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Well-Being and the Authoritarian Welfare State: Sector of Employment and Human Happiness in Arab Countries

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We use the World Values Survey data to study the relationship between subjective well-being and sector of employment in Arab countries. Our findings demonstrate a significant subjective well-being differential between public and private sector workers in the Arab World. Public sector workers are both more happy and more satisfied with their lives when compared to their private sector counterparts. Our study shows how public sector employment, which has historically been one of the main pillars of authoritarian Arab welfare states, not only shapes people’s preferences but also affect important social outcomes such as subjective well-being.

Source: Public Organization Review

DOI: 10.1007/s11115-025-00964-4

Authors: Ebshoy Mikhaeil, Adam Okulicz-Kozaryn

Institution: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Language: English

Topic: Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190