Women and Inequality in a Changing World: Exploring New Paradigms for Peace Read Along
In Chapter 4 of the Edited Volume, "Does Corporate Social Responsibility Matter to Gender Inequality During Times of Crisis?" the authors, Jinyoung Lee, C.K. Lee, and Jane L. Parpart explore the intersection of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and gender inequality during times of crisis, specifically focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://www.routledge.com/Women-and-Inequality-in-a-Changing-World-Exploring-New-Paradigms-for-Peace/Mahmoudi-Parpart-Seaman/p/book/9781032250649
The chapter builds on previous research on constructing gender identity through masculinity in CSR reports, ‘Constructing gender identity through masculinity in CSR reports: The South Korean case’ (Lee & Parpart, 2018). The authors highlight the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on women and other marginalized groups, and the need for businesses to prioritize gender equality in their CSR practices. The authors argue that CSR practices can play a crucial role in reducing gender inequality by addressing issues such as pay gaps, parental leave policies, and flexible work arrangements. They also emphasize the need for more research and attention to be paid to the intersection of CSR and gender, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The authors identify five key areas where urgent action is needed to create more gender equality in the post-pandemic recovery phase: gender discrimination, work-life balance, career development, equal pay, and gendered irregular workers. These areas highlight the systemic challenges faced by women and marginalized groups in the workplace and emphasize the importance of CSR initiatives in addressing these issues.
Overall, this chapter provides valuable insights into the role of CSR in promoting gender equality during times of crisis. It highlights the need for businesses to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by women and other marginalized groups, and to develop strategies for promoting gender equality and social responsibility in their practices.
About the Author:
Eden is a Graduate Assistant with the Baha’i Chair for World Peace. She is attending the University of Maryland and pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Care Management. She graduated from the University of Maryland in 2023 with a B.S. in Public Health Science. Her interests are in health disparities and policy.
