Impediments to progress toward discrimination-free workplaces: the overlooked causes of gender-based discrimination in the Pakistan and UK contexts

Purpose Gender-based discrimination (GBD) in the workplace is a worldwide phenomenon. Both developed and developing states face this issue at different levels and magnitudes, though in the latter, it is more prevalent. We explore the overlooked possible root causes of workplace GBD. Design/methodology/approach Employing qualitative methods, data were collected via semi-structured interviews from 40 women employed in the service sector in Pakistan and the UK. Data underwent thematic analysis by applying the Gioia method. Findings Using ambivalent sexism theory to underpin our approach, we conclude that educational institutes, especially single-gender ones, could be among the primary reasons for GBD in Pakistani workplaces, but not those in the UK, where it is less prominent. We identify common factors that challenge this theory and point out current social, industrial and economic situations that link with such single-gender education. Practical implications This study can help “institutionalize” (establish policy and practice as organizational culture) a discrimination-free workplace and assist relevant stakeholders by facilitating policymakers and government agencies to more deeply understand causality and take corrective and preventative action against GBD. Originality/value The findings contribute to the studies of gender discrimination and educational provision by elucidating previously overlooked possible roots of persistent GBD.