Gender-Based Income Inequality and Financial Vulnerability in the Turkish Labor Market: A Comparative Analysis Across Stem, Care, and General Sectors (2015–2023)

Authors : Muhammed Mustafa Tuncer Çalışkan

Pages : 273-285

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Publication Date : 2025-12-26

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study investigates gender-based income inequality and informal employment in Türkiye’s labor market from 2015 to 2023, focusing on sectoral, educational, and occupational differences. Utilizing model-based estimates from the International Labour Organization, it employs descriptive statistical analysis to examine hourly wage gaps and informality rates between male and female workers. Findings reveal that women are predominantly employed in low-paying care sectors while being marginally represented in high-paying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields. Despite rising educational attainment, women earn less across all fields and are more likely to work without formal protections when compared with men. These trends highlight a persistent form of gender inequality rooted not only in earnings but also in employment quality and access to social protection. This study argues that such disparities worsen the financial vulnerability of women and limit their broader financial inclusion. It concludes that addressing gender inequality requires a holistic approach—one that goes beyond employment rates to include wage justice, formalization, and inclusive economic policy reform.
Keywords : Toplumsal Cinsiyet, Gelir Eşitsizliği, Kayıt Dışı İstihdam, STEM, Bakım Sektörü, Finansal Kırılganlık

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