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Unraveling the factors behind women’s empowerment in the labor market in Colombia

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  • Iregui-Bohórquez, Ana María
  • Melo-Becerra, Ligia Alba
  • Ramírez-Giraldo, María Teresa
  • Tribín-Uribe, Ana María
  • Zárate-Solano, Héctor M.

Abstract

This paper examines the evolution of women’s participation in the labor market from 1960 to 2018, shedding light on the complex factors that influence their labor opportunities. The study emphasizes the significance of the historical context in understanding these factors. This research uncovers nuanced insights using a two-step methodology involving principal component analysis and Time-Varying Effect Modeling (TVEM). The results indicate that the transition from high to low fertility rates significantly influenced female labor participation until the mid-1980s. Educational advancements, economic growth, and changing marital dynamics also played a role in shaping evolving patterns. From 1980 to 1995, factors such as diminishing fertility, declining infant mortality, and varying economic conditions influenced women’s labor involvement. From 1995 to 2010, higher education emerged as a key driver, accompanied by shifting societal norms, and from 2010 to 2018, there were positive contributions from fertility rates, minimum wage, and male labor participation. This study underscores the intricate relationship between education, demographics, social norms, and economics in shaping women’s labor force participation, providing valuable insights for gender-inclusive policies and promoting women’s economic empowerment.

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  • Iregui-Bohórquez, Ana María & Melo-Becerra, Ligia Alba & Ramírez-Giraldo, María Teresa & Tribín-Uribe, Ana María & Zárate-Solano, Héctor M., 2024. "Unraveling the factors behind women’s empowerment in the labor market in Colombia," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 183(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:183:y:2024:i:c:s0305750x24002018
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2024.106731
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Female labor participation; Time-Varying Effect Modeling; Demographic transition; Colombia;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C29 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Other
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • N36 - Economic History - - Labor and Consumers, Demography, Education, Health, Welfare, Income, Wealth, Religion, and Philanthropy - - - Latin America; Caribbean

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