Generation Z, the Flexibility–Security Trade-Off, and Hybrid Work Preferences: Evidence from the Czech Republic
Volume 04, Issue 1
Authors
Hana Bohusova • Lenka Farkacova • • •
Keywords
Generation Z, hybrid work, platform work, labour-market policy, public-sector HRM, flexicurity
Citation in APA style
Bohusova, H. & Farkacova, L. (2026). Generation Z, the Flexibility–Security Trade-Off, and Hybrid Work Preferences: Evidence from the Czech Republic. Journal of Business Sectors, 4(1), 68–77. https://doi.org/10.62222/SUJA3561
DOI
Abstract
Research background:
Public administration across Europe faces growing pressure to modernize employment frameworks in response to Generation Z, whose expectations regarding flexibility, autonomy, and meaningful work challenge traditional public-sector structures. While these dynamics are widely discussed, empirical evidence from Central and Eastern Europe remains limited.
Purpose of the article:
This article examines work arrangement preferences of Generation Z in the Czech Republic and analyzes how the trade-off between flexibility and income stability shapes these preferences. It also evaluates implications for labour-market policy and public-sector workforce modernization.
Methods:
The study is based on a quantitative survey of 317 respondents conducted in autumn 2025. Data were collected through an online questionnaire focusing on work preferences, flexibility orientation, income stability, and attitudes toward platform work. The analysis applies descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to examine associations between key variables.
Findings & Value added:
The results show a strong preference for hybrid work arrangements combining stability with flexibility. While flexibility is highly valued, it does not translate into significant interest in platform work, which is perceived mainly as a supplementary activity. Respondents prioritizing flexibility are more open to alternative work forms, whereas those emphasizing income stability prefer traditional employment. Importantly, Generation Z does not perceive flexibility and security as mutually exclusive but seeks balanced employment models. The study also finds support for moderate regulation of platform work, emphasizing the role of public institutions in ensuring protection without limiting flexibility. These findings highlight the need for labour-market policies that integrate structured flexibility with social protection and for public administration to adopt hybrid work models to remain competitive. The paper contributes to debates on labour-market transformation, public-sector modernization, and economic policy.