Gender Pay Gap in Estonia

Abstract

Abstract The gender pay gap continues to exist in Estonia, irrespective of its economic and social development, since the country’s inception. Addressing the prevalence of the gender pay gap is significant in the social and economic development of Estonia, as it reflects equal opportunities and social justice in a given society. Reducing the gender pay gap helps ensure that individuals, irrespective of their gender differences, receive equitable pay for their contributions, which can result in increasing their financial security and quality of life while developing an inclusive society. This study examines the gender wage gap and sexism in Estonia and compares sexism in Estonia with Sweden, in order to understand its antecedents. The findings indicate that Estonia has the highest gender wage gap in the European Union. The findings also highlight a significant level of sexism based on societal beliefs associating women’s higher earnings with marital issues and the inability to care for their children. The study further identifies education and income and significant factors influencing the prevalence of sexism in Estonia and Sweden, providing implications for increasing education and employment opportunities for women, implementing fair pay practices, and promoting workplace equality to ensure an inclusive and empowered society in Estonia.