Gender Gaps in Education, Labor, Fertility Rate and Political Representation: Implications for Economic Growth in Albania

Author : Teuta Xhindi

Abstract :This study investigates the relationship between gender gaps in education, labor participation, fertility rates, political representation and their implications for economic growth in Albania, using data from 2000 to 2021. The analysis considers key gender inequality indicators used by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to calculate the Gender Inequality Index (GII), specifically girls’ primary and secondary education enrollment, female labor force participation, fertility rates and political empowerment, alongside GDP growth per capita. Using data from the World Bank Development Indicators and time series analyses, our findings indicate that increased female labor participation contributes positively to economic growth by enhancing human capital and workforce productivity. On the other hand, the Gender Parity Index (GPI) for primary and secondary education shows a negative effect after two periods of time while number of seats held by women in parliament has negative effect on GDP Growth after one period. Additionally, the study explores the demographic and economic implications of fertility trends, emphasizing their role in shaping Albania’s labor supply and long-term growth potential. These findings highlight the need for targeted policies that promote gender equality in education and labor markets to support sustainable economic development and align with Albania’s EU integration objectives

Keywords :Gender Inequality Index, indicator, GDP growth per capita, time series, ADF test ect

Conference Name :International Conference on Women, Education and Gender Equality (ICWEGE-25)

Conference Place Kranj, Slovenia

Conference Date 2nd Jun 2025