Introduction
Despite progress in reducing the gender wage gap in Mexico, significant challenges remain for women to attain higher-paying positions, according to the National Minimum Wage Commission (CONASAMI) in its latest report on economic behavior.
Wage Gap Reduction
The wage gap has narrowed by 1.6 percentage points in hourly wages and 4.9 percentage points in labor income between 2018 and 2024, as per the results of the National Household Income and Expenditure Survey (ENIGH).
Key Challenges for Women
A crucial factor explaining the persistence of the wage gap is women’s difficulty in accessing higher-paying positions, which typically offer less flexibility in work hours and arrangements, states the CONASAMI report presented to patronal, worker, and government sector representatives.
This issue is exacerbated by the disproportionate burden of domestic responsibilities that primarily falls on women.
“Economic studies have shown that the birth of a first child negatively impacts women’s labor market insertion, resulting in fewer hours dedicated to the labor market, lower incomes, and a search for more flexible jobs, often leading to informality,” the report adds.
Solutions for a More Equitable Work Environment
To address these challenges, transparency in workplace wages is essential, along with periodic audits to verify equitable remuneration and bias-free recruitment processes.
“These measures, combined with the elimination of workplace violence and discrimination, are indispensable steps towards building fairer and more inclusive labor markets,” the report concludes.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What progress has been made in reducing the wage gap in Mexico?
A: The wage gap has narrowed by 1.6 percentage points in hourly wages and 4.9 percentage points in labor income between 2018 and 2024, according to the ENIGH.
- Q: What challenges do women face in attaining higher-paying positions?
A: Women encounter difficulties accessing higher-paying positions due to less flexibility in work hours and arrangements, as well as the disproportionate burden of domestic responsibilities.
- Q: How can workplaces become more equitable and inclusive?
A: Implementing wage transparency, periodic audits for equitable remuneration, bias-free recruitment processes, and eliminating workplace violence and discrimination are essential steps.
