ANALÝZA VLIVU HOME OFFICE A FLEXIBILNÍCH FOREM PRÁCE NA PRACOVNÍ UPLATNĚNÍ ŽEN NA MATEŘSKÉ A RODIČOVSKÉ DOVOLENÉ V ČR PO PANDEMII COVID-19 K ROKU 2024

This thesis analyzes the impact of flexible forms of work, particularly remote work (working from home), on the success of women’s return to the labor market after maternity and parental leave in the Czech Republic following the COVID-19 pandemic. The added value of this thesis lies in its reflection on the current post-pandemic situation in the labor market, combined with the use of mixed-methods research based on a combination of an original quantitative questionnaire survey and qualitative insights from HR managers in the field. The research results indicate that the availability of flexible work arrangements is a key factor in the Czech context for facilitating women’s return to the labor market after maternity and parental leave. The study also reveals differences in corporate culture based on company size, with organized and systematic support for flexibility being found primarily in large corporations. These findings add to existing arguments regarding the practical application of human capital theory, as employers today use flexibility as a strategic tool to retain qualified and experienced female employees. The conclusion of the study presents empirically grounded recommendations for employers and policymakers aimed at more effectively balancing work and family life and eliminating the so-called maternity penalty.