Maternity and paternity labor regulation and gender gaps in Latin American labor markets
Keywords:
Gender gaps, Labor markets, Labor regulation, MaternityAbstract
This study comparatively examines labor protection for maternity and paternity and its descriptive relationship with gender gaps in Latin American labor markets. Based on an analysis of current labor legislation in Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Uruguay, the research combines documentary examination of normative frameworks, text mining techniques, and secondary data on labor force participation and informality. The analysis identifies differences in the duration of leave, legal design, coverage mechanisms, and the degree of formally recognized co-responsibility. The findings indicate that countries with more diversified protection schemes tend to exhibit smaller relative gender gaps in labor force participation and higher levels of formal female employment. The comparative evidence suggests that the institutional design of maternity and paternity labor protection constitutes a relevant component of the labor market environment shaping persistent gender inequalities in the region.
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