Abstract.Day3.Loukili

Does the Gendered Nature of Invisible Work Explain Low Female Labor Participation Rate: Insights from Morocco

Sara Loukili and Najat El Mekkaoui

This study employs the framework of National Time Transfer Accounts (NTTA) to examine the interplay between demographic shifts, labor market dynamics, and gender inequalities in Morocco, where female labor force participation remains notably low despite rising educational attainment. Our findings reveal that invisible work accounts for over 27% of Morocco's GDP, with women disproportionately bearing this responsibility. This burden exacerbates economic disparities, restricts women's financial independence, and poses broader structural challenges to the economy. We identify critical barriers -- particularly the limited coverage of social policies -- that hinder women's engagement in the labor market. the insights underscore the necessity of targeted interventions to dismantle systematic barriers and foster economic equity, serving as a reference for other developing countries facing similar challenges.