Unfolding an unexplored relationship: Gender inequality and export diversification -Case of Central American countries-

Bc. Alejandra CASTAŇEDA

Master's thesis

Export diversification in gender inequality: Empirical evidence

Abstract:

Throughout history, Central American countries had adopted many policies which incentivize economic growth, export diversification being one of them. Countries' policies should move from producing agricultural products to more specialized and added-value products. In this context, gender inequality appears supported by SDGs remarking an existing gap between women and men that should not be increasing anymore. The present study explores the relationship between gender inequality and export diversification for countries part of the Central American Common Market using the Global Gender Gap Index from the World Economic Forum and the Theil Index from own calculation as measurement. To explore this relationship two analyses were performed: On the one hand descriptive, to provide accurate context and knowledge of the current situation in the countries on export diversification and gender inequality, on the other hand, an econometric analysis where non-linear relationship and bidirectionality were tested through Random Effects, Fixed effects, TOBIT model, and Generalized Spatial Panel Data Model with Random Effects from 2006 to 2019. The results suggest that there is a positive statistically significant non-linear relationship between export diversification and gender inequality. The study provided evidence that relationships among countries can be different so deeper focused studies are relevant.

Abstract:

Throughout history, Central American countries had adopted many policies which incentivize economic growth, export diversification being one of them. Countries' policies should move from producing agricultural products to more specialized and added-value products. In this context, gender inequality appears supported by SDGs remarking an existing gap between women and men that should not be increasing anymore. The present study explores the relationship between gender inequality and export diversification for countries part of the Central American Common Market using the Global Gender Gap Index from the World Economic Forum and the Theil Index from own calculation as measurement. To explore this relationship two analyses were performed: On the one hand descriptive, to provide accurate context and knowledge of the current situation in the countries on export diversification and gender inequality, on the other hand, an econometric analysis where non-linear relationship and bidirectionality were tested through Random Effects, Fixed effects, TOBIT model, and Generalized Spatial Panel Data Model with Random Effects from 2006 to 2019. The results suggest that there is a positive statistically significant non-linear relationship between export diversification and gender inequality. The study provided evidence that relationships among countries can be different so deeper focused studies are relevant.

Keywords

trade, gender inequality, export diversification, development

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 31. 5. 2022

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Jean-Francois Brun

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Science

Master programme / field:
Development Studies and Foresight / Development Studies and Foresight - specialization in Global Development Policy