Published in May 2023, an analysis of gender disparity across Italy revealed persistent economic and professional inequalities between men and women. According to the World Economic Forum’s latest report cited at the time, closing the global gender wage gap would require approximately 135 years at the prevailing rate of change.
Earnings and Leadership Gaps
Women in Italy earned 23% less than men, according to 2020 Istat data. The disparity extended beyond individual wages to business ownership: only 22.7% of Italian enterprises were led by women, according to 2021 Unioncamere figures. Women faced reduced access to training and employment opportunities compared to men, as documented by Eurostat in 2021.
Unpaid Labour and Care Work
Beyond formal employment, gender inequality appeared in domestic responsibilities. According to 2021 OCSE data, women performed three times as much housework as men on average. This unequal distribution of care work contributed to broader barriers to labour market participation and career advancement.
Pathways to Change
Strategies to address these disparities included supporting women entrepreneurs and their businesses, purchasing goods produced by women, and promoting workplace diversity and inclusion. The Circuito Donne Imprenditrici (Women Entrepreneurs Network) offered a platform to source goods and services from Italian women-led enterprises, many holding Made in Italy excellence NFT certification.
Frequently asked questions
How much less do women earn than men in Italy?
According to 2020 Istat data, women in Italy earn 23% less than men.
What percentage of Italian businesses are run by women?
Only 22.7% of Italian enterprises are led by women, according to 2021 Unioncamere figures.
How long would it take to close the global gender wage gap?
The World Economic Forum estimated it would take approximately 135 years to close the economic gender gap globally at the rate of progress being made.