ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews a number of human resource management (HRM) policies and practices that, on the one hand, are affected by the current financial crisis and, on the other, could help organizations alleviate their negative effects. It examines the various HRM-related issues which some actions have been taken recently while many more remain be taken. The chapter explores which major HRM-related institutional and organizational challenges are prevalent in Southern Europe and identify possible HRM practices and efforts that may help mitigate or overcome the most negative outcomes or even act as protecting shields for people and organizations. It offers a special account of the situation in two of the countries emerging from a severe economic crisis: Greece and Cyprus, with emphasis on HRM issues. The chapter focuses on the role of HRM in fighting crisis and HRM challenges for Southern European countries.
