Gender (in)equality in the division of labour: An incomplete revolution?

Interviene: Chiara Saraceno, Università di Torino

Organizzato da: Dondena

Abstract: In this paper, I will present an overview of debates and empirical data concerning what has been called the “unfinished” gender equality revolution from the perspective of the gender division of paid and unpaid work and of the role of social policies in either supporting or weakening this division. I will first discuss research and debates on the link between the gender division of unpaid family work and inequality in the labour market. Then, focusing exclusively on parenthood as a crucial factor in (re-)producing differences between men and women as well as among men and among women, I will discuss how different childcare and parenthood policy packages contribute to strengthening or, on the contrary, reducing the gendered impact of parenthood on labour market participation and also social class differences among women. Finally, I will discuss how the present economic crisis and the global competition through labour costs may affect further developments in this policy field.