Bridging the Gender Gap: Socio-economic Pathways to Employment Equality in Asia

Authors : Meltem Ince Yenilmez, Burak Darıcı

Pages : 10-23

View : 77 | Download : 74

Publication Date : 2025-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :With significant inequalities between men and women, gender inequality in the workplace remains a significant issue in Asia. The employment-to-population ratio for women was only 44.7% in 2024, compared to an average of 73.5% for men. With women\\\'s participation at 24.5% and men\\\'s at 75.3%, South Asia is the most unequal area. In East and Southeast Asia, female employment rates are higher at 61.2% and 55.8%, respectively, but they are still below the male participation rate of more than 77%. Among the primary barriers are cultural customs, a subpar childcare system, and limited access to formal education and employment. In South Asia, these disparities perpetuate poverty and inequality, while in East and Southeast Asia, salary gaps and underrepresentation in leadership positions obstruct inclusive progress. Between 2014 and 2024, with fixed effects panel data regression approach, urbanization, education, economic expansion, and foreign direct investment (FDI) all had a significant role in advancing gender equality. For example, although East Asia has benefited from urbanization and improved education, South Asia continues to face major structural and cultural obstacles. Despite slight improvements, women continue to be overrepresented in informal and insecure jobs, which furthers economic inequality. Addressing these issues requires expanding education, strengthening childcare systems, enhancing access to financing for female entrepreneurs, and enforcing laws on equal pay. Closing the gender gap is not only morally right but also economically important to support inclusive growth and long-term regional prosperity.
Keywords : Cinsiyet eşitsizliği, İstihdamın nüfusa oranı, Kültürel engeller

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