WOMEN IN THE SOUTH ASIAN LABOR MARKET: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS FROM A GENDER PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Despite the universal acceptance of gender equality as an important policy objective for human development and an important aspect of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inequalities persist in almost all socio-economic segments, including labor and the labor market. Gender disparity remains a common barrier to sustainable development, varying in severity across countries and regions. The issue of gender inequality thus remains a hot-button topic. This policy research paper critically analyzes the different dimensions of gender inequality in the South Asian labor market. As a part of the methodological approach, the study reviews the concurrent working papers, technical notes, strategic dialogues, policy papers, conference proceedings, relevant books and journals, and e-materials. The study has found gender gaps in labor force participation, occupational segregation, and wage patterns in South Asian labor economies. Several policy options are recommended, at both the country and regional levels, to reduce the persistent gender gap in the labor market to a minimum level. This study will primarily benefit academics, researchers, labor economists, and policymakers.