At the Threshold of Economic Empowerment: Women, Work and the Gender Regimes in Asia.

Abstract

The paper examines women’s economic empowerment in Asia, with a particular focus on South Asia. Along with other studies on female labour force participation undertaken for this project, this paper provides important insights on the nature of women’s economic empowerment in the region, focusing on the changes and transformations witnessed in recent years. In particular, the study enriches the economic dimensions typically addressed in this literature by highlighting the challenges and prospects for women in the world of work from a gender and development perspective. This paper is part of the ILO Asia-Pacific Working Paper Series, which is intended to enhance the body of knowledge, stimulate discussion and encourage knowledge sharing and further research for the promotion of decent work in Asia and the Pacific.