Gender wage gap in Italian companies

This thesis investigates the gender wage gap in Italy using regression analysis to control for counfounding factors. Key concepts like gender disparity and wage discrimination are defined and explored in their historical and socio-economic contexts. Initial chapters distinguish 'sex' from 'gender,' showing how various influences shape gender roles. The evolution of gender roles highlights milestones like the feminist movements of the 1960s and 1970s. The thesis analyzes wage differentials, occupational segregation, and leadership representation. Despite being the global majority, women often earn less than men with similar qualifications. This disparity is linked to occupational segregation and undervaluation of women's work. Higher education levels tend to widen the gender wage gap. Understanding the gender wage gap requires historical context. During the industrial period, womenwere in less costly manufacturing roles. Since the 1970s, female employment has increased, but gender inequalities persist. The thesis discusses legal reforms and societal changes. Regression analysis quantifies gender wage gap controlling for job tenure, work experience as well as geographical, industry and occupational factors. The use of ISTAT labour force survey allowed us to replicate the analysis for several points in time (4th quarter of 2008, 2010, 2015 and 2020) to assess the evolution of gender wage gap over time. Results show the decrese of the gender wage gap, both conditionally and unconditionally to the inclusion of covariates, thereby suggesting that recent attention to the phenomenon has led to positive effect on the gap. Nonetheless, the gap remains quite sizeable (around 20%). The thesis concludes with policy recommendations to address the gender wage gap, emphasizing legal reforms, educational initiatives, corporate accountability, and cultural shifts. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of gender equality measures are crucial. The discussion on corporate quotas, like those in Norway, provides examples of how legal mandates influence gender diversity in governance. Interviews with Norwegian directors show support for quota laws and their positive effects. This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the gender wage gap using statistical methods. It underscores the need for targeted policies to address these inequalities and highlights the economic and social benefits of gender equality. Practical recommendations are offered for policymakers, employers, and society.