Why Is International Equal Pay Day Observed on September 18?

Every year, the world observes the International Equal Pay Day on September 18 in order to bring awareness about the ongoing efforts made worldwide regarding equal pay for work of equal value. The occasion serves as a reminder of the gender inequality that persists to date; specifically, women continue to earn lesser wages compared to those earned by men, where the global pay gap between men and women is approximately 20%. According to the UN and ILO, equal pay is not only an issue of human rights but also an important aspect of gender equality, decent work, and sustainable development.

What Is International Equal Pay Day?

International Equal Pay Day symbolizes the global initiatives taken to provide equal pay to women for performing work of equal value. This occasion is in line with the international commitments to human rights and eradicating discrimination in general and discrimination against women and girls in particular.

Moreover, it aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Why the Gender Pay Gap Persist?

Gender pay gap has its root causes in a number of historical and persistent societal issues. Women, especially migrant women, are overrepresented in informal sector employment where the pay is lower and there are no guarantees of social protection.

Unpaid care work is another issue. Women provide more household and care activities on a daily basis than men do, including child care and care of elderly people.

Women may be affected by what is known as the motherhood penalty when working mothers earn less than men in similar positions. Stereotyping, gender discrimination in hiring procedures, and inequality in promotion opportunities can contribute to pay gap.

What does ILO say about Equal Pay?

According to the ILO Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value for women and men has been established. The convention is considered as one of the ILO Fundamental Conventions.

Other international labour standards pay attention to the contribution of workers’ and employers’ organizations to pay equity through social dialogue, freedom of association and collective bargaining.

Equal Pay International Coalition

The Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) comprises governments, employers, employees and other organizations that seek to promote equal pay.

The EPIC is led by the ILO, UN Women and the OECD. The goal of this coalition is to help ensure equal pay for women and men through coordinated action at the global, regional and national level.

Why Is Equal Pay Important?

Equal pay is related to human rights, gender equality, social justice and economic resilience, and closing pay gaps can help empower women economically and increase their participation in the workforce.

It is still relevant in countries and sectors, because although it may be formally accepted, equal pay does not mean the same results at work.