Barriers and opportunities in women's labor force participation: A roadmap for Turkey

While the labor force participation rate for women in Turkey is 35%, this rate stands at 71% for men. This situation is considered a major obstacle to Turkey's economic development.

The "ActHuman Women's Employment and Barriers & Opportunities in the Labor Force: A Guide to Moving Forward" report, prepared in collaboration with İNGEV (Human Development Foundation) and Sabancı University Istanbul Policy Center (IPC) to increase women's labor force participation, offers a comprehensive roadmap. This report proposes innovative solutions to increase women's participation in the labor force and ensure gender equality in Turkey.

According to the report in Sözcü newspaper, İNGEV President Vural Çakır emphasized the social benefits of economically empowering women, stating that empowering women is the most effective way to secure the future of their children.

'THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO SAVE OUR CHILDREN'S FUTURE'

Çakır said, "Economically empowering women is the most effective way to save our children's future. Women with economic power will feel more secure, both for themselves and their children, with the support of society."

Sabancı University faculty member Dr. Esra Durceylan Kaygusuz stated that the report provides a comprehensive analysis of women's employment. Emphasizing that gender inequality lies at the root of the factors restricting women's labor force participation, Kaygusuz expressed that the recommendations in the report aim to empower women in both their professional and social lives. "Increased participation of women in working life will also make significant contributions to the general welfare of society," she said.

The report includes strategic recommendations under six main headings to ensure women participate in the labor force more effectively:

*Progress with Defined Protocols: Processes to increase women's participation in working life should be carried out in accordance with standard protocols.

*Local Strategies and Advisory Boards: Localized strategies should be developed at the provincial and district levels to respond to the needs of employers and female employees.

*Correct Segment Targeting: Strategies for the female labor force should be planned according to women's skills and needs.

*Breaking Out of Traditional Molds: Women should not be limited to traditional professions; they should be encouraged to take part in different sectors as well.

*Competitive Wage Policies: To increase women's labor force participation, income levels should be created that can compete, especially with domestic services.

*Supporting Women's Entrepreneurship: Support should be provided through financial literacy and mentorship programs for female entrepreneurs.

The report includes many policy recommendations to increase women's labor force participation, ranging from education to digitalization and guidance toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields. It also emphasizes the need to expand care services, ensure gender equality in workplaces, and develop policies that will facilitate women's access to senior management positions.

The report states that greater participation of women in the labor force will contribute significantly not only to economic growth but also to social welfare.

News Source: 12punto