Perceptions of Good Jobs. Analytical Report. Port Loko and Freetown, Sierra Leone

The Perceptions of Good Jobs study has been conducted in order to better understand and explain how jobs are perceived in a number of selected countries. The report is primarily targeted to provide inputs towards the WDR 2013 and is part of a series of studies conducted on perceptions of good jobs in four countries: Colombia, China, Egypt and Sierra Leone. The main emphasis has been to explore the nature of jobs that affect living standards and enhance social cohesion. The report addresses the following research questions:

• What are the most important factors affecting labor force participation?
• What are the relations between jobs and household wealth?
• Can perceptions and stereotyping of jobs be regarded as constraints for job creation?
• What are the linkages between job benefits and job stability?
• What are the determinants of job satisfaction?
• Jobs can be evaluated using a human empowerment perspective by focusing on three features of a job: cognitive, creative and autonomous activities. What is the relationship between job status and human empowerment?
• Does inclusion in the labor force contribute to increased social trust and confidence in institutions?

This study was conducted in the urban Freetown and the rural Port Loko district in Sierra Leone. Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, is situated in Western Area, one of the four regions in Sierra Leone. Most of the population in this region is urban (87 percent). Port Loko district is part of Northern Region, and boarders Western Area. Western area is seen as the wealthiest region in Sierra Leone. Port Loko is the fourth most populated district in the country. While the population in Freetown is a mix of different ethnic groups, Port Loko is dominated by Temne.