Swiss expert report examines gender-based wage disparities

An expert report commissioned by the Swiss Federal Office for Gender Equality examines gender-based disparities in wages, bonuses, promotions, and working conditions. The study, authored by Prof. Dr. Kurt Pärli, analyzes Swiss and international law to propose reforms regarding pregnancy and maternity in the workplace.

A central legal question involves determining when differences in treatment due to a lack of work performance are objectively justified versus when they constitute prohibited discrimination based on pregnancy or maternity. The report emphasizes the need to distinguish between various legal claims, including protections under the Equality Act, the Code of Obligations, the Labor Act, and the Earned Income Compensation Act.