The Role of Trade Liberalization in Changing Employment Patterns of Rural Women in Iran

Trade Liberalization is a key factor influencing labor market structure that can transform the employment patterns of rural women. The significance of this group's involvement in rural production and livelihoods underscores the necessity of comprehending its impact on their economic participation. The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of trade liberalization on the economic participation rate of rural women in Iran. This study is of an analytical-applied type and was conducted using time series data from 1998 to 2021. The ARDL model was employed to analyze the data, which were collected from reputable statistical sources. The results suggest that, in the long-run, economic participation rate of rural women is positively and significantly impacted by increased trade liberalization. This is due to the fact that trade development can establish a foundation for sustainable employment by expanding export markets, increasing investment, and creating new job opportunities. The findings also indicated that the employment of women is positively influenced by the expansion of the agricultural sector, whereas their participation is adversely affected by an increase in the rural population. Furthermore, the short-term impact of Trade Liberalization was negligible, suggesting that economic and social structures must be adjusted to capitalize on trade opportunities. The results indicate that trade development can establish a foundation for the sustainable employment of rural women by expanding markets, attracting investment, and generating job opportunities. Accordingly, policymakers should prioritize the provision of supportive facilities, the enhancement of communication and financial infrastructure, and the development of occupational skills to enable rural women to participate in international markets.