Gender Equality and Social Dialogue in India

This paper forms part of a comparative research project that has the objective of demonstrating that gender equality and social dialogue are mutually beneficial fundamental values and crosscutting issues, and their promotion should go hand in hand. The main topic of this study is India’s progress toward greater provision of gender equal employment opportunities. Findings include that Indian national tripartite forums are not yet fully representative of the workforce, nor do they substantially deal with gender equality issues. The participation of men and women in government, trade unions, etc are examined. Examples of collective bargaining are presented, and corresponding gender equality issues analysed. Discussions of this study serve as starting points for Indian social partners to engage with gender equality issues; and bring about greater gender balance in tripartite social dialogue forums, national discussions and collective agreements.