Persistent Discrepancy: Investigating the Reasons Behind the Halt in Narrowing the Gender Wage Disparity and Proposing Potential Solutions

In a recent study conducted by researchers from the Universities of St. Gallen and Bern, the gender pay gap was found to be wider than ever since 2019. The study, which was based on data from Q4 2024, revealed that women aged 25-54 earned $217 less per week than men, equating to approximately 83% of what men earned.

The gender pay gap is influenced by various factors, including occupational segregation, unequal caregiving responsibilities, and potential systemic bias. One area that has been highlighted as crucial in moving towards greater equality is the implementation of flexible work schedules, pay transparency, and paid parental leave. These policies can help create a more level playing field by enabling better work-life balance, ensuring fairer compensation practices, and allowing parents - regardless of gender - to take time off without sacrificing their careers.

The study also found that the gender pay gap varies across different ethnicities and roles. For instance, men in sales roles earned 30% more than women in the same roles, on average. Similarly, Asian men earned 23% more per week than Asian women, Hispanic men earned 16% more than Hispanic women, and White men earned 15% more than White women, on average.

Moreover, the study found that the gender pay gap is particularly wide for women of colour and working mothers. Black men earned 14% more per week than Black women, on average. Unfortunately, women with advanced degrees earned 25% less per week than men with the same degree, on average.

However, there are signs of progress. The share of US job postings offering at least one family-related benefit (parental leave, adoption assistance, bereavement or family leave) has more than doubled since January 2020, although it remains rare. Extending family benefits to parents of any gender could set a precedent for more equal childcare from the outset.

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The precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval, accurate to within +/- 3.2 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. Survey data was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Indeed from January 30 to February 3, 2025.

In conclusion, while there is still much work to be done in bridging the gender pay gap, the implementation of family-friendly policies and a commitment to pay transparency and fairness can help create a more equitable work environment for all.

Persistent Discrepancy: Investigating the Reasons Behind the Halt in Narrowing the Gender Wage Disparity and Proposing Potential Solutions