Gender economic disparities persist across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

Reports from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland highlight persistent economic disparities between men and women, driven largely by part-time work and unpaid care responsibilities.

In Germany, the Agentur für Arbeit Rhein-Wied-Westerwald is hosting a seminar to address women's financial independence, noting that part-time work and caregiving duties often lead to lower pension entitlements. Data shows that twelve years of providing care at a level 3 severity results in a pension of approximately 200 euros. While the German government recently rejected a plan to reduce pension contributions for caregivers, the financial impact of caregiving remains a significant factor in long-term security.

In Austria, the 2026 Vorarlberg Equality Report indicates that 82 percent of women work part-time compared to only 6 percent of men, particularly in families with children under 15. Women also perform nearly four and a half hours of unpaid domestic work daily.

In Switzerland, a study by the University of Lausanne found that young women continue to earn less than men despite having higher educational qualifications. For those born in 1995, the income gap remains at 14 percent.