CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN’S LABOR MARKET PARTICIPATION AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES IN PERU - A qualitative study of gender norms and class conditions

Abstract: Aim:The aim of the study is to gain an in-depth understanding of women's possibilities, obstacles and pathways to employment in Peru through educational opportunities. Theory: Theories used for analysis of the collected empirical material are feminist theory, gender segregation, hidden work, class, and Bourdieu’s theory of capital. Method: The method used in the study is a qualitative method, where the data collection has taken place through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The sample consisted of four experts within their respective fields as well as four women of different ages and social backgrounds who described their experiences. Result: The result showed that women's labor market participation were unquestionably affected by gender norms and class structure in the Peruvian society. The interviewed women had different experiences related to the labor market participation, either difficulties to enter it or to reach higher positions within it, due to gender norms. The study showed indications of a connection between the quality of education and labor market participation. The quality of the education varied depending on the area of residence, urban or rural. Due to lack of economic capital, individuals in the rural areas did not have the same opportunities on the labor market as individuals in the urban areas. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on women's work situation. The female dominated sectors have been the most affected ones, which is also confirmed by the interviewees.