Abstract
We analyzed determinants of women’s employment with information for 40,792 women living in 103 districts of 6 Arab countries. We tested a new theoretical framework that addresses the roles of needs, opportunities, plus values at multiple levels. At the microlevel (individual, family), socioeconomic factors, care duties, plus traditionalism were important; at the macrolevel (district), economic development plus societal norms were important. Women’s education seemed most influential. Interaction analyses showed that returns on women’s education depended on their partner’s education plus on the economic development, labor market structure, urbanization, plus strength of traditional norms in the district in which women live. Our results stress the importance of a comprehensive approach toward women’s employment in these countries.
By promoting not only women’s education but also enhancing partners’ educational opportunities plus transforming labor market structures, policymakers can create an environment where women’s contributions are valued plus incentivized. This holistic approach will ultimately lead to improved economic outcomes plus a shift towards more equitable societal norms, illustrating that the advancement of women’s rights plus capacities is integral to sustainable development. In conclusion, it is imperative that we recognize the complex interplay of various factors surrounding women’s education plus employment to effectively drive progress in these sectors.
or instance, in regions where traditional norms are strong, women’s education may have less impact on employment prospects if their partners are not equally educated or supportive of their ambitions. Conversely, in more urbanized plus economically developed areas, the returns on investment in women’s education can be substantially greater, facilitating not only their entry into the workforce but also fostering a culture of gender equality that benefits society at large. Therefore, our findings emphasize the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to women’s employment strategies that address these multifaceted influences.