The gender pay gap in Malta : an analysis of the financial and insurance sector

Abstract

This dissertation looks at the gender pay gap within the financial and insurance sector in Malta by studying the potential causes of the pay gap and determining whether they have an influence in this specific sector. The pay gap may be determined by differences in labour force participation and labour force segregation, tradition and culture as well as discrimination. Policies are also analysed to determine their target and effectiveness, in order to better understand the current climate. The study was conducted via a survey shared amongst employees within the sector, with questions related to their human capital features, as well as their views on discrimination, traditional gender roles and current policies. The main results obtained verifies the existence of a gender pay gap and portray the primary cause to be childcare responsibilities, as well as other traditional gender norms. Moreover, the results show the limited effect of policies in relation to employment in Malta, creating the necessary argument that more needs to be done.