Gender Pay Gap in Kazakhstan: The Impact of Social Factors and Structural Segregation

Abstract

The gender pay gap remains a salient manifestation of social inequality and poses a significant barrier to attaining gender equality in the labour market. This study examines the structural, social, and institutional factors that influence the gender pay gap in Kazakhstan from 2013 to 2023. Based on a structural-dynamic macroeconomic approach, the research integrates descriptive analysis, correlation and regression modelling, and PESTEL analysis. The results show that the gender pay gap in Kazakhstan decreased from 32.2% in 2013 to 25.7% in 2023, with the lowest value recorded at 21.7% in 2021. A strong negative correlation was identified between the share of women with higher education and the gender pay gap (r = -0.71), confirming education as a primary factor in reducing inequality. The regression analysis also confirmed the significant impact of employment segregation: a high concentration of women in low-paid sectors, particularly trade (TradeRatio coefficient +2.27, p ≈ 0.064), substantially contributes to maintaining the pay gap. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate among women showed a positive correlation with the gender gap (r = +0.52), though it was not statistically significant in the regression model. The PESTEL analysis highlights additional barriers, including insufficient institutionalisation of equal pay control mechanisms, entrenched social norms regarding female professions, limited access to high-tech and green sectors, and weak transparency in wage systems. Future research directions include micro-level analysis of individual factors and regional disparities, as well as the effects of digitalisation and flexible employment on gender pay equality.