This theme reflects the significant transformations in the labour market driven by the gig economy, automation, and remote work. While these shifts offer new opportunities for flexibility and participation, they also raise concerns about job security, equitable access to emerging job fields, and the recognition of unpaid care work, necessitating adaptive and protective labour policies.
Sub-themes
Gig Economy and Precarious Employment
The rise of gig work offers flexibility but lacks traditional employment protections.
- At work, women may face instability and lower benefits.
- At home, this can strain family financial security.
- At home, women are often more expected to still do domestic AND paid work.
Care Economy Transformation
Shifts in who performs care work and how it's valued.
- At home, there's potential for more equitable distribution of care work.
- In society, recognising and compensating care work can (and should) shift societal values towards gender equality.
Automation and Job Displacement
Automation threatens jobs in sectors with high female employment.
- At work, women risk higher job losses without reskilling opportunities.
- In society, this could lead to increased economic disparities.
Workplace Flexibility and Culture
Changing attitudes towards work-life balance and flexible working hours. Including adapting to the possibilities of a shorter working week.
- At home, this can support a more equitable division of labour.
- At work, it challenges traditional career paths but requires cultural shifts to avoid penalising those who utilise flexibility.
- At work, it needs employers to take a leadership role.
Skills and Education for the Future Workforce
The need for continuous learning to keep pace with technological changes.
- At home, work, and in society, women need access to STEM education and upskilling to close gender gaps in emerging fields.
- In society, lifelong learning initiatives can support gender equality in the labour market.
