GENDER-BASED INEQUALITY IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN GEORGIA

Gender-based wage inequality constitutes one of the most critical socio-economic challenges in contemporary labor markets. Despite the existence of legislation in Georgia aimed at promoting gender equality, as well as the country’s commitment to international obligations, available statistical data reveal a significant disparity in the economic status of women and men. The purpose of this study is to identify the scale and underlying factors of gender inequality in the private sector, as well as to assess the effectiveness of legal and institutional mechanisms. The research employs a mixed methodology: a quantitative survey (185 respondents) and in-depth interviews (6 participants). The results confirm that women are often concentrated in low-paid positions, their education is less likely to translate into career advancement, and promotion processes usually favor men. Interview data further demonstrate that discriminatory practices manifest both at the recruitment stage and within workplace environments and promotion processes. The findings indicate that gender inequality in Georgia is systemic in nature, and its mitigation requires both stronger public policies and a transformation of organizational culture.