Gender segregation in the labour market : root causes, implications and policy responses in Malta

Abstract

The purpose of this thematic report is to provide an analysis of gender segregation in Malta’s labour market with relevance to the root causes, implications and policy responses. This is done by drawing on the European Employment Strategy, Malta’s National Reform Programme as a strategy for growth and jobs, European Commission reports, national data, and academic literature on segregation. A case study of graduate women within the context of gender equality and social policies in Malta is also discussed.

This thematic country report has three main parts: the first part presents trends in occupational and sectoral segregation for Malta, and an interpretation of relevant data and official indicators; the second part links with the first and provides an analysis of the factors that contribute to segregation and of its implications, supported by findings of a case study; the third part discusses issues within the policy context, and raises questions on job evaluation, skill shortages and training programmes; the final part proposes a few recommendations based on the discussion and findings in this report.