Investigating gender inequality in the workplace: a South African perspective

Anathi Beauty Mabungela (), Sixolile Nyusani () and Denver Davids ()
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Anathi Beauty Mabungela: Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
Sixolile Nyusani: Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
Denver Davids: Nelson Mandela University, South Africa

Insights into Regional Development, 2025, vol. 7, issue 1, 144-158

Abstract: This review provides a comparative analysis of gender equality practices in the workplace, with a particular emphasis on Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The research employed a qualitative review of existing literature to gain an in-depth understanding of gender inequality in KwaZulu-Natal and to inform potential policy interventions to promote gender equity in the workplace. Gender equality is essential for promoting inclusive workplaces, economic development, and societal advancement. Wage disparities, unequal promotion opportunities, and under-representation in leadership roles are common consequences of gender inequality in the workplace, which is a persistent issue. Cultural norms, organisational biases, misogyny, patriarchal influences, intersectional marginalisation, and gendered organisational structures are contributing factors. Legal reforms, diversity initiatives, personal empowerment strategies, and solutions such as bridging the gender pay disparity, promoting work-life balance, and challenging gender biases are necessary to address this issue. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing an overview of research on gender inequality in Kwa-Zulu-Natal and identifying gaps that warrant further investigation. Through feminist theory as its framework, the paper explores gender inequalities in South Africa, advocating for the equal and fair treatment of men and women. Furthermore, it is an essential resource for government sectors, emphasising the necessity of effective policies and interventions to resolve workplace inequalities, thereby assisting policymakers in implementing targeted initiatives. The research paper employed a systematic review approach to collect information from qualitative studies, thereby ensuring a context-sensitive analysis and improving the rigour and precision of the search process.

Keywords: gender; discrimination; inequality; bias; workplace (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J70 J71 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ssi:jouird:v:7:y:2025:i:1:p:144-158

DOI: 10.70132/m7582734484

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