Women and Future of Work

In order to strengthen and protect women’s labour participation in G20 countries, standardization of definition of ‘skills’ for different countries and futuristic skills was recommended. It was also suggested that social awareness in the societies for balanced distribution of responsibilities between men and women with increasing acceptance of gender neutral roles and men’s participation in household responsibilities and child care. There should be a congenial environment for women at workplaces, with flexibility in terms of work hours and maternity related considerations. The Task Force also suggested development of child care institutions, reduction of wage disparities, reducing labour force participation rates between men and women as per Brisbane Goals, effective implementation of ILO recommendations on Quality Apprenticeship Programmes, implementation of 202 on Social Protection Floors, formalization of economy, promotion of women’s entrepreneurship programs, encouraging STEM education, increased technological access for employment in platform economy with reduction in instances of ‘wage thefts’.

The G20 and other participants agreed on the need for making consistent advancements to ensure a better life for women at workplaces while accelerating economic growth through their increased contribution.