Work

Determinants and consequences of gender segregation in the labor market: A comparative analysis of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Link to a corrigendum to "Determinants and consequences of gender segregation in the labor market: A comparative analysis of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan" http://dx.doi.org/10.21511/ppm.24(4).2026.08Type of the article: Research ArticleAbstractGender segregation in the labor market remains a pressing socio-economic issue in Central Asian countries, where women still face challenges in accessing high-paying sectors and leadership positions. This study aims to uncover the structural and socio-economic drivers of gender segregation in the labor markets of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, and their impact on employment equity and economic opportunity. The analysis covers the period from 2014 to 2023. The research uses national statistical data and applies the Index of Dissimilarity (Duncan index), the Gender Gini Index, and the Glass Ceiling Index (GCI). Kazakhstan’s Duncan index increased from 0.2965 to 0.32195, and Kyrgyzstan’s rose from 0.2859 to 0.3347, indicating rising occupational gender segregation. Uzbekistan, in contrast, showed a modest decrease from 0.3223 to 0.3104. Gini index values dropped most significantly in Kazakhstan (from 11.59 to 8.53), reflecting improved wage equality. Uzbekistan also saw a notable decline (from 24.41 to 19.12), while Kyrgyzstan’s progress was slower (from 9.02 to 8.33). GCI trends show persistent barriers: in Kyrgyzstan, the index rose from 0.84 to 1.24, while in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan it remained below 1.0, peaking at 0.91 and 0.74, respectively. A panel regression (R² = 0.6647) identified significant predictors: GDP per capita (β = 16.225), women in leadership (β = –3.85), female unemployment (β = 2.98), and the male-to-female employment ratio (β = 0.68). The strongest factor in reducing the gender pay gap was women’s representation in leadership. The results highlight structural inequality and call for targeted policy to ensure inclusive labor market development.

Source: Problems and Perspectives in Management

DOI: 10.21511/ppm.23(3).2025.30

Authors: Yeldar Mubarakov, Ilona Bordiyanu, Ayazhan Seriktayeva, Zhassulan Baikenov, Gulnar Sarsembayeva

Institutions: Kazakh-American Free University, D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan State Technical University

Language: English

Topic: Labour Market and Migration

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $738