From Digital Divide to Employment Equity: How Digitalization Affects Women's Involvement in the Workforce in OECD Countries

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines how digitization affects women's employment in 22 OECD nations that were chosen for their varied political, economic, and digital traits. To better understand how technological adoption interacts with socioeconomic factors to influence employment outcomes, the study will look at the short-term and long-term effects of digitalization on women's labour force participation. Design/Methodology: A strong panel data structure is used, with variables like the fertility rate (F), GDP per capita (GDP), internet usage (WEB), mobile cellular subscriptions (MB), and women's labour force participation (W) for the years 2000–2021. Utilizing econometric methods such as unit root tests, co-integration analysis, and causality models, the study aims to identify dynamic connections between women's employment and digitization. Findings: The results show that women's labour market engagement is greatly increased by digitalization, as seen by the rise in the use of mobile and internet gadgets. Results from co-integration show that women's employment and digitalization have a consistent, long-term relationship. Originality: This study highlights the revolutionary potential of digitization in establishing gender-neutral employment markets and provides fresh insights into the relationship between digitalization and gendered labour market outcomes. The study adds to the conversation on creating inclusive digital economies worldwide by being in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, especially those on gender equality and decent labour.