What household structure encourages innovation? Comparative analysis of a case study of female labor in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan

Object: This study examines the impact of patrilocality on women’s work in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. It demonstrates how the dominance of the husband in decision-making affects women’s activity in the labor market. This hinders the innovative development of the country and limits the country’s entrepreneurial potential. Methods: The authors use Life in Kyrgyzstan 2019 data in econometric analysis, with OLS and Tobit models. This statistical analysis focuses on the relationship between household structure and labor force participation of married women in Kyrgyzstan. Since similar data is not available for Kazakhstan, the comparative analysis is based on a review of the literature. The authors assume that the patriarchal structure of families has become widespread in both neighboring countries due to the similar mentality, traditions, and history of the Kyrgyz and Kazakhs. Results: The authors find that women in patrilocal households spend more hours at home compared to women in households with other family structures. Moreover, the husband's dominance in family decision-making correlates positively with the number of hours the wife works outside the home. This demonstrates a positive effect of intrahousehold income distribution mechanisms. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for policies to support women’s economic activity in both countries. The authors conclude that addressing barriers created by traditional male-headed households can increase women’s contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship, thereby contributing to economic growth and development in Central Asia. Additional information: This study was carried out within the framework of a project funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant No. AP23487405).