Editorial
The International Day of Equal Pay is a global observance that aims to raise awareness and action on the issue of unequal pay for work of equal value. It is celebrated on September 18 every year, as established by the United Nations in 2020. The day also reflects the commitment of the United Nations to human rights and gender equality, as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The International Day of Equal Pay is crucial because it highlights the persistent and pervasive problem of the gender pay gap, which affects women and girls across all regions, sectors, and occupations. The gender pay gap is estimated at around 20 per cent globally, meaning that women earn 80 cents for every dollar men earn for work of equal value. The gap is even wider for women of colour, women with disabilities, and women in certain industries and professions. The gender pay gap has negative impacts on women’s economic empowerment, well-being, and opportunities, as well as on their families and communities.
The International Day of Equal Pay also encourages various stakeholders to take concrete and coordinated actions to address the root causes and consequences of the gender pay gap. Accordingly, strengthening the legal and policy frameworks to ensure equal pay for work of equal value, such as by enacting and enforcing anti-discrimination laws, promoting pay transparency and accountability, and providing effective remedies for victims of pay discrimination, are essential. Furthermore, enhancing the capacity and awareness of employers, workers, and their organizations to implement equal pay policies and practices, such as by conducting regular pay audits, eliminating gender stereotypes and biases in job evaluation and classification, and providing training and guidance on equal pay principles is the way forward.
Additionally, supporting women’s access to decent work and career development, such as by investing in education and skills development, promoting work-life balance and flexible work arrangements, and addressing occupational segregation and vertical segregation, are vital steps. There is also a need to mobilize resources and partnerships to advance equal pay for work of equal value, such as by engaging with the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC), a multi-stakeholder initiative led by the ILO, UN Women, and OECD. EPIC aims to facilitate dialogue, exchange good practices, provide technical assistance, and advocate for global, regional, and national equal pay.
The International Day of Equal Pay is a critical opportunity to raise awareness and action on one of the most pressing challenges for achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls. By closing the gender pay gap, we can contribute to a more inclusive, fair, and prosperous world for all. Therefore, there is a need to create awareness in Pakistan about the significance of equal pay standards.
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