Return to Office Policies Risk Widening Regional Divides in Europe
Recent initiatives by companies to enforce a return to office policies could exacerbate regional inequalities across Europe, according to a new study involving researchers from the University of Surrey. The findings highlight the potential reversal of benefits gained from remote work, suggesting that such mandates could deepen divides between urban and rural areas.
Impact of Remote Work on Job Satisfaction
The study, published in Scientific Data, is part of the R-Map project and is based on a survey of over 20,000 workers throughout Europe. Researchers explored how remote work influences various factors such as well-being, job satisfaction, productivity, and travel behaviors. The results indicate that when remote work is well-supported, it enhances job satisfaction and provides individuals with greater control over their work-life balance.
Participants reported that the flexibility of remote work allows them to choose their working hours and locations, which contributes to improved personal autonomy and reduced commuting stress. This shift has the potential to foster a healthier work-life balance, offering individuals more time for family and personal pursuits. However, the study warns that when organizations discourage or limit remote work, employees risk losing these advantages.
Regional Disparities in Access to Resources
The research reveals that access to reliable internet, local services, green spaces, and community facilities significantly affects whether remote work leads to improved quality of life or exacerbates inequalities. Areas lacking these resources may lead to feelings of isolation among remote workers, diminishing the benefits of flexible work arrangements.
“Remote work is changing how our towns and cities function and who gets access to good and rewarding jobs. When remote work is supported properly, it can reconnect residents and tourists with their communities and boost local economies,”
stated Dr. Nikolas Thomopoulos, one of the lead researchers. He emphasized the importance of this research in guiding policymakers toward creating a more equitable future of work.
Similarly, Dr. Tracy Xu noted, “Our research shows that remote work can genuinely improve quality of life by giving people more choice in where and how they live. Without strong digital access and supportive environments, remote workers can feel isolated and overlooked.”
According to the R-Map findings, while remote work can invigorate rural or suburban areas, the benefits are not universally experienced. Access to essential amenities, such as grocery stores, healthcare, and public transportation, significantly influences whether remote work is sustainable and conducive to well-being. Participants with reliable internet and local services reported higher satisfaction levels and stronger community ties.
The study’s insights underscore the need for a balanced approach to remote work policies, advocating for support systems that enhance connectivity and local infrastructure. As organizations reconsider their work models, the research serves as a critical reminder that equitable access to resources is essential for maximizing the benefits of remote work.
For more information, refer to the study by Katharina Fellnhofer et al, titled “A large-scale dataset for analysing remote working in urban and rural areas across Europe,” published in Scientific Data in 2025.
