Gender inequality in employment: Editors' introduction

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to reflect upon the relationship between the causes of gender inequality in employment and policies designed to eliminate or ameliorate it. When this is brought into focus, some fundamental shortcomings in policy emerge from the shadows. It also provides a thumbnail sketch of the four other papers that make up this special issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is a theoretical reflection, with lessons for practice.FindingsThe paper: establishes that gender inequality in employment exists; considers the main causes of gender inequality in employment; and evaluates the effectiveness of the main policies dealing with these causes.Practical implicationsPolicy makers must reflect far more thoroughly on the causes of gender inequality in employment, and tailor their policies to address them.Originality/valueIt is one of only a few papers dealing with the relationship between the causes of gender inequality in employment and policies designed to eliminate or ameliorate it.