A Multidimensional Approach to the Gender Gap in Poverty: An Application for Turkey

Conventional poverty measures have long been criticized as a poor gauge of quality life. Household-level income or expenditure data used in these are silent on intrahousehold inequalities and capture means to an end rather than outcomes opportunities individuals face. This article constructs multidimensional index (MPI) address problems. It calculates for Turkey four equally weighted dimensions: education, health, employment, household living conditions. The study introduces employment distinct dimension well-being, which is especially pertinent the gender gap Turkish context. finds significant (30–34 percent) gap, gradually narrowing over time. However, there very little convergence between regions. Finally, results show households with multidimensionally women non-poor men most common sub-group increase share no members.HIGHLIGHTS evaluates analyze gaps.Employment proxies ignored functionings like self-respect social inclusion.Gender was 30 34 percent during 2006–15.Gender only closing youngest cohorts.Within-household disparities high stable 2006–15.