Gender equality and economic growth
Past progress and future potential
Despite women’s increased participation in the labour market significantly contributing
to past economic growth, persistent gender gaps across OECD labour markets hinder
full realization of the potential gains of women’s economic participation. This paper
analyses the economic implications of these gaps and evaluates the potential for future
growth through greater gender equality in labour market outcomes. Utilising two methodological
frameworks, the paper first employs growth accounting to measure the contribution
of women's employment to past economic growth. The paper then uses a simplified version
of the OECD Long-Term Model in conjunction with projections on future labour force
dynamics to estimate the impact of greater gender equality on the labour market. These
analyses provide insight into the potentially significant economic benefits of closing
persistent gender gaps across OECD countries.
Published on March 11, 2024
In series:OECD Social, Employment and Migration Working Papersview more titles