ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses gender gaps in labour market outcomes and discusses how gender equality has developed in Lithuania over time. During Soviet times, gender equality in Lithuania was formally claimed in both economic and social life, with paid employment of women propagated on ideological grounds. Although Lithuania, like other post-socialist countries, has a long tradition of women's active participation in the labour market, women still are on average more economically disadvantaged than men. The chapter also discusses the main patterns of female and male employment, placing the analysis within a broader historical context. Analysis of women's labour force participation trends in Lithuania suggests that some forms of gender inequalities persist, particularly in terms of the segregated employment structure and the wage gap. To develop the regulatory framework in gender mainstreaming and prepare for European Union accession, in 2003 Lithuania adopted the Law on Equal Treatment and the National Programme on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men 2003–2004.
