Based on any findings from your sex-disaggregated data analyses, you should then consider which gender-transformative interventions could be the most effective to counter occupational segregation in the health workforce in your context. Which of these interventions could be advocated to reduce gender stereotyping and ensure that all health workers have equal opportunities to pursue and succeed at careers of their choice?
Could the intervention:
- Challenge and change common discriminatory gender beliefs and norms (i.e., gender stereotyping)?
- Attempt to change imbalance of power or otherwise level the playing field for male and female health workers?
- Introduce, make use of, or further the existing legal protections against gender discrimination in employment?
Suggested interventions
- Conduct qualitative research to identify gender stereotypes that contribute to occupational segregation to identify appropriate solutions.
- Establish an equal opportunity employment unit that advocates for and enforces policies and strategies that counter gender stereotyping and discrimination in the workplace.
- Develop, monitor, and enforce antidiscrimination and equal opportunity policies in the workplace.
- Eliminate stereotyped language in employment notices and the hiring process. For example, omit the use of sex-specific pronouns and requirements for a particular sex in job postings.
- Increase opportunities for women to fill decision-making roles through affirmative action hiring, promoting into senior positions, and expanding access to preservice and in-service training. Develop affirmative action plans and conduct regular reviews.
- Offer a leadership development and mentoring program for female health workers.
Country examples
- South Africa: Employment Equity Act and related regulations
- Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda: Affirmative action admission to universities
- Australia: Queensland Department of Health’s workplace harassment and sexual harassment policy
- Global: Global Women’s Leadership Initiative
- Global: Asia-Pacific Women in Leadership Program to support women leaders in universities
