The Central Bank of Colombia published a new article in its Ensayos sobre Política Económica (ESPE) journal analysing gender gaps in Colombia across the life cycle and arguing that closing them will require a more equitable redistribution of unpaid care work. The research frames gender inequality not only as a social issue but as a structural constraint on economic development with macroeconomic consequences. Using analytical and empirical evidence that combines microeconomic and macroeconomic data alongside a regional and public policy lens, the article finds that material labour market gaps persist despite educational and regulatory advances. It estimates an unexplained wage gap of around 13% in 2024 and a labour force participation gap of about 20 percentage points, with marked regional heterogeneity, and links these outcomes largely to women’s disproportionate unpaid care burden, including cumulative effects such as lower pensions in old age. The analysis also quantifies macroeconomic gains from narrowing participation and wage gaps, citing higher employment, productivity and growth and a potential easing of fiscal pressures associated with population ageing and the sustainability of social protection systems; the ESPE publication notes that views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent the Central Bank or its board.
Central Bank of Colombia 2026-03-16
Central Bank of Colombia publishes ESPE research linking unpaid care work to persistent gender gaps and macroeconomic costs
The Central Bank of Colombia's ESPE journal article examines gender gaps in Colombia, highlighting unpaid care work as a key factor. It identifies a 13% unexplained wage gap and a 20 percentage point labour force participation gap, attributing these to women's disproportionate care responsibilities. The article suggests that closing these gaps could enhance employment, productivity, and economic growth, while easing fiscal pressures.