200 Years of Feminisation of Professions in Poland—Mechanism of False Windows of Opportunity

Agnieszka Świgost-Kapocsi

doi:10.3390/su13158179

Abstract

This paper presents the problem of the female labour market in Poland and the phenomenon of the feminisation of selected occupations. The main aim was to identify the mechanisms behind the feminisation of occupations in Poland and its consequences by combining considerations of labour market theory with development path theories. This research employed various methods such as the method of analysis of secular trends, as well as a critical reinterpretation of the literature review. Data from the 19th century to 2019 were analysed. The textile industry, education, local public administration, and social care are included in the analysis. The research motivation was to answer the question as to when and under what conditions the selected occupations were feminised. The mechanism of false windows of opportunity was identified, as well as times when the windows of opportunity to enter a given occupation opened and closed for women. Specifically, the research findings described that the female labour market is dependent on the male labour market and thus windows of opportunity offer new employment opportunities but with limited possibilities and under poorer conditions.

Highlights

The labour market is characterised by inequalities, especially between workers of different genders
In 2019, 67% of women were economically active in the European Union, compared to 78% of men [1]
The aim of this paper is to identify the mechanisms behind the feminisation of occupations in Poland and its consequences by combining considerations of labour market theory with development path theories

Summary

Introduction

The labour market is characterised by inequalities, especially between workers of different genders. In 2019, 67% of women were economically active in the European Union, compared to 78% of men [1]. Women earned on average 16% less, were much less active in STEM professions, and less frequently held managerial positions [1]. Women dominate in the group of care and educational professions (education, healthcare, welfare services) and lower-order services (such as personal services, cleaning). The main reasons behind the present-day situation of women in the labour market are those resulting from the gender contract. The literature (e.g., [2]) emphasises the division of social roles, in particular the attribution of a caring and educational role to women and the resultant perception of women as potentially less flexible as workers. The career gap caused by motherhood is perceptible later with women have less experience, a limited network of contacts, and less chance of promotion [3]

Objectives

Methods

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion