Challenges in implementing digital employment platforms for women’s participation in Sri Lanka: A structural equation modeling approach

The female labor force participation (FLFP) rate is vital for socioeconomic growth, influencing productivity, economic progress, and gender equality. Despite advancements in women’s digital and computer skills, Sri Lanka’s FLFP remains low, averaging 34% over the past decade. The increasing digital skills among women present an opportunity to address this issue through digital employment platforms that offer flexible work arrangements and remote job opportunities, especially for women balancing work and family responsibilities. This study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to quantitatively assess the challenges faced by women in using digital employment platforms within Sri Lanka’s banking and manufacturing sectors, which, despite their potential for digital transformation, exhibit low digital maturity. Findings reveal that inadequate technical skills, limited empowerment, weak communication, low confidence in digital technologies, and societal and institutional barriers are major obstacles. Additionally, poor professional networking, low interest in ICT skills, and insufficient risk assessment further hinder women's engagement with digital platforms. These barriers underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance technical training, empower women professionally, improve networking opportunities, and strengthen risk management, thereby promoting gender equality and inclusive employment within Sri Lanka’s labor market.