A gender-equal public service: Challenges, progress and behavioural insights

This chapter examines gender equality and anti-harassment practices in the public service. The public service is an important employer in all OECD countries, and is often expected to lead the way in implementing gender equality and diversity measures. This chapter begins with an update on current gender equality trends in public employment, including a discussion of gendered gaps in part-time employment and women’s representation in different occupational groups. This is followed by a practical analysis of gender-sensitive people management, which gives an overview of strategic planning and discusses institutional frameworks that can support public services in reaching their gender equality goal. The chapter emphasises the value of behavioural insights in responding to underlying norms and attitudes that deeply influence gender equality in the workplace. It concludes with key OECD policy recommendations for implementing gender equality measures in the public service.