UN labor agency reveals how jobs and pay for women have barely improved in the last 20 years

Labor equality in the modern workplace takes another blow as the UN labor experts shed light on how there has been little to no improvement in nearly 20 years in women’s access to jobs, employment conditions, and the persistent pay gap.

This job gap for women is a stubborn quality of the labor market that is constant throughout the globe. However, it is particularly apparent in developing nations, according to the International Labor Organization (ILO). Compared with 16.6% of men unable to find a job, one in every four women faces that dilemma.

The observation is based on the latest data collected from all job seekers, as opposed to those who are labeled as unemployed. This shows us how women have a much harder time finding a job than men. As found by the UN agency, 15% of working-age women globally would like to work but do not have an occupation. In men, this is only a 10.5% share. Unemployment levels are similar for both genders.

Some reasons why women are disproportionately affected by the job search are personal responsibilities, family responsibilities, and unpaid care work. These responsibilities and commitments often keep women from being employed and launching an active job search. Also, the same reasons make it harder for most women to be available to work on short notice.

The job gender gap has remained almost the same between 2005 and 2022. This reflects how women are overrepresented in many vulnerable sectors. Most women around the globe are naturally expected to run their households or work for relatives rather than work for themselves. This, in addition to the low employment rates, affects women’s earnings. Did you know that globally, a woman makes only 51 cents for every dollar a man makes?

These differences in pay become much more significant in certain areas of the globe. In some places, especially in low- and lower-middle-income nations, women only earn as little as 33 cents and 29 cents for every dollar a male employee earns, respectively. In high-income and upper-middle-income nations, respectively, women make 58 cents and 56 cents on the dollar respectively.

In developing nations, gender imbalances and access to employment seem to be greater than what was previously comprehended. The UN agency shows us how the global unemployment rate was at 5.8% in 2022 and is expected to remain the same in 2023.

Take your job search further with our professional resume writing service, a compelling cover letter writing service, and expert LinkedIn optimization service.