Public Works That Provide Care Services: Enhancing Women's Economic Opportunities, Boosting Human Capital, and Building Skills for the Care Economy

Itay Noy and Alessandra Heinemann

No 207143, The Social Policy and Labor Discussion Paper Series from The World Bank

Abstract: Women around the world face a heavier care burden than men, restricting their participation in the labor force. At the same time, the shortage of quality, accessible, and affordable care services undermines human development and well-being. Limited investment in early childhood care and education reduces children’s learning and future earnings potential. Similarly, inadequate elderly care undermines health, independence, and well-being among older adults. Investing in care is, therefore, important not only for closing gender gaps but also for boosting human capital outcomes. It also makes a compelling economic case for investment, given the care economy’s potential to drive growth and create jobs in the context of ongoing demographic shifts. This note discusses how public works programs (PWPs) may reduce care burden, increase the provision of care services for those in need, and build skills for the care economy. Drawing on examples of World Bank-supported PWPs that provide childcare, the note explores how such programs can be designed and implemented, and what potential benefits and challenges early evidence reveals.

Date: 2025-11-30
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