Understanding the Gender Wage Gap: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Published online on August 05, 2026
Abstract
["Journal of Economic Surveys, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\nThis study conducts a systematic review of 149 records, including peer‐reviewed articles, reports, working papers, and theses, to empirically investigate the gender pay gap and the factors that contribute to it in organizations. The study has three primary objectives: (1) To identify and analyze the determinants of the gender wage gap in the workforce, (2) To examine how these determinants differ across high‐income, low‐income, upper‐middle‐income, and lower‐middle‐income countries, and (3) To review and propose tailored policy implications and recommendations. The findings reveal that social barriers, occupational segregation, and unpaid care work are key drivers of the gender wage gap worldwide. While legal, economic, and societal measures have made progress in reducing wage inequality, persistent gaps remain, particularly in non‐OECD and low‐income countries, where data is scarce. To address these disparities, the study emphasizes the need for legal enforcement, wage transparency, and anti‐discrimination regulations. It also highlights the importance of education and family‐friendly policies in supporting women's employment and reducing the motherhood penalty. Valuing unpaid care work and promoting gender diversity are essential for creating a more inclusive labor market. This study offers a global analysis of the gender wage gap, providing insights and highlighting research gaps.\n"]