Despite significant strides in women’s emancipation, the wage gap between men and women remains prevalent in Serbia. According to official data, women in their thirties earn 20% less than men of the same age, placing Serbia among European countries with the largest wage disparities.
Key findings from the Republic Institute of Statistics’ latest report on the wage gap (September 2024) reveal that men consistently earn more than women across all age groups. For instance, in the 15-19 age group, men earn 64,800 dinars on average, while women earn 59,400 dinars. The wage gap is most significant among individuals aged 35-39, where women earn 20.19% less than men.
The wage gap is particularly pronounced among highly educated individuals, where men with higher education earn 26.7% more than women. Regionally, the wage gap is largest in Belgrade (20.04%) and smallest in Šumadija (9.34%).
The wage disparity also exists in various job sectors. The smallest gap is seen in management positions (5.3%), while the largest difference is in artisan-related occupations (23.8%).
Factors contributing to the wage gap
The wage gap is influenced by multiple factors, including family responsibilities. Many women in their thirties face challenges such as maternity leave and child care, which affect both their income and career advancement. Additionally, women spend twice as much time on unpaid household labor compared to men, contributing to the imbalance between work and personal life.
Women are also underrepresented in management positions and entrepreneurship. Gender stereotypes and societal expectations shape the perception of women’s roles in the workforce.
Addressing the wage gap
To reduce the wage gap, experts suggest raising awareness, introducing Equal Pay Day, and ensuring salary transparency. Government action is needed to enforce equal pay for equal work, as seen in other countries where such laws have narrowed the wage gap.
The Commissioner for the Protection of Equality also recommends breaking stereotypes around gender roles in the workplace, increasing access to child care, and promoting flexible work arrangements to help balance professional and personal lives.
Pensions: Another disparity
Women also receive lower pensions compared to men. As of 2022, the average pension for women was 14.43% lower than that of men, reflecting the broader wage gap throughout their careers.
EU comparison
In the European Union, the gender pay gap averaged 12.3% in 2023, with Latvia, Austria and Germany showing the largest disparities. On the other hand, countries like Romania, Italy, and Luxembourg had much smaller gaps, with Luxembourg even seeing women earn slightly more than men.
The persistent wage gap in Serbia and across Europe highlights the need for continued efforts to achieve gender equality in the workforce.
