Work

The Digital Economy and Gender Disparities in Rural Non-Agricultural Employment: Challenges or Opportunities for Sustainable Development?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The digital economy is emerging as a transformative force for advancing inclusive sustainable development in rural China, particularly in addressing gender disparities in non-agricultural employment. Using the Digital Inclusive Finance Index and China Family Panel Studies data, this paper analyzes the digital economy’s impact on the gender gap in rural non-agricultural employment. It finds that the digital economy boosts women’s employment and wage, narrowing the gap. This effect is more obvious among groups with medium-high human capital, younger people, married people, and those with kids. The digital economy narrows the gap through the following three mechanisms: reshaping skill demands, reducing info-search cost, and promoting domestic labor socialization. It is an engine for growth and a force for gender equality in rural employment.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17093911

Authors: Wentao Li, Yun Chen

Institution: University of International Business and Economics

Language: English

Topic: Economic Growth and Development

Subfield: Information Systems

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, No poverty, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896