Gender Inequalities in Time Use: Evidence from Unpaid Activities in Senegal

Abstract

This study examines the factors explaining the unequal distribution of time devoted to unpaid activities between women and men in Senegal. Although essential to the economic and social functioning of households, unpaid activities remain largely unrecognized in national accounting systems and are characterized by significant gender inequalities. The study draws on data from the 2021 National Time Use Survey conducted in Senegal and employs two analytical approaches: descriptive analysis based on a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and explanatory analysis using multiple linear regression to identify the determinants of gender differences in time allocation. The results show that age group, region of residence, and marital status are the main factors explaining the amount of time women devote to unpaid activities. Among men, the main determinants are region of residence, occupational category, and household living standards. This study contributes to a better understanding of the determinants of gender inequalities in the distribution of unpaid work. It highlights the need to strengthen public policies aimed at promoting a more equitable sharing of domestic and care responsibilities, particularly through awareness-raising initiatives led by relevant institutions. These findings also provide a basis for guiding future research on the mechanisms underlying the reproduction of gender inequalities and their implications for work–family balance.