Women’s Economic Participation in Italy and Spain: Structural Barriers and Emerging Trends

This article examines the persistent gender gap in labour market participation in Italy, focusing on the structural and policy factors that continue to limit women’s employment and economic independence. Despite regulatory efforts and increasing attention to gender equality at the European level, Italy remains among the lowest-ranking countries in Europe for female employment rates, wage equality, and the availability of services supporting work–life balance. Data highlight a long-term structural disadvantage affecting women throughout their working lives, with consequences extending to financial autonomy, independence, pension access, and long-term wellbeing. The situation is further aggravated by labour market dynamics that lead many women to reduce working hours or leave employment entirely after motherhood or other care obligations. These trends have significant implications not only for individual women but also for the sustainability of the Italian workforce and national economic growth.

To better understand these dynamics, the article adopts a comparative perspective and briefly analyses the Italian case alongside developments in Spain, a country historically considered socio-economically comparable to Italy but which has recently implemented significant legislative reforms to promote gender equality in the workplace. The comparison highlights how policy interventions, including equal pay legislation and more balanced parental leave systems, may influence women’s labour market participation.

In conclusion, the paper offers insights for future research avenues investigating the topic from different perspectives and suggestions for future policy development in Italy, with an interpretation of situated knowledge that can be extended to various European countries.