More Women in Permanent Jobs - Equality is Still Far Off - North Rhine-Westphalia's women still trapped in precarious jobs despite progress
Women in North Rhine-Westphalia face persistent challenges in the workplace, despite progress over the years. Employment rates remain lower for women, with only 56% working compared to 65% of men. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) has now highlighted systemic issues, including unreliable childcare and unequal pay, that continue to hold women back.
Between 2008 and 2024, the number of women in socially insured employment in North Rhine-Westphalia grew by nearly a third, reaching around 3.4 million. Yet many still find themselves in precarious roles: women hold 76% of part-time jobs and over 59% of mini-jobs, which often lack social security and fair wages.
The DGB has criticised these working conditions, calling for the abolition of mini-jobs entirely. They argue that such positions trap women in low-paid, unstable work with few opportunities for advancement. Instead, the union proposes flexible working models, such as shorter full-time hours of 30 or 32 hours per week, to help parents manage family responsibilities.
Childcare remains a major obstacle. Daycare centres in the region close for an average of 20.5 days per year, disrupting work schedules. Women also bear a heavier load at home, spending nearly 30 hours a week on household chores and caregiving—10 hours more than men. The DGB suggests introducing 'compatibility guides' in workplaces to create a more family-friendly environment.
Pay inequality persists as well. On average, women earn 15% less per hour than men, even when qualifications are similar. Many end up in lower-skilled roles despite their education, further widening the gap. In 2024, only 25.6% of employed mothers in Germany worked full-time, with nearly half of all employed women in part-time positions.
The DGB's proposals aim to address deep-rooted inequalities in North Rhine-Westphalia's labour market. Flexible working hours, better childcare, and the removal of mini-jobs could help women secure stable, well-paid employment. Without these changes, disparities in pay, job security, and career opportunities are likely to remain.
