Politics of Equality at Work

Blogs

Who negotiates equality? Equality plans and constitutional debates in Spain, by Miguel Martinez Lucio

In the third of our blog series for the Politics of Equality at Work project, Miguel Martinez Lucio explores the process of the formulation of Equality Plans in Spain and the role of formal worker representation in these discussions. Their construction illustrates the varying nature of the role of social dialogue in the development of the political design of equality, which contrasts with other countries like the UK.


Holly Smith,

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Deeds not words – equal pay in UK Local Government, by Holly Smith

In the second of our blog series for the Politics of Equality at Work project, Holly Smith explores the political, economic, and historical context of the drive for pay equality within UK Local Government and looks at the collective bargaining frameworks and legislation which have shaped its approach. While national frameworks are ostensibly committed to equality, the implications of pay parity have had unforeseen consequences, which has resulted in fraught negotiations and high levels of litigation and is difficult to achieve within the unique political and financial perimeters of the local state.


Holly Smith,

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Gender-based quotas in France: quantity without ‘real’ (e)quality? - by Heather Connolly

In the first of our blog series for the Politics of Equality at Work project, Heather Connolly explores the potential significance of 2021 legislation in France to introduce quotas to accelerate gender equality.

While quotas are a useful way to achieve gender balance in numbers, workplace cultures and systemic inequalities outside the workplace mean that women are potentially taking on higher levels of responsibility in difficult working environments without any reduction in caring or domestic loads. A broader social approach with accompanying support is required for more gender-equal societies.


Holly Smith,

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