Patterns and Causes of Female Labor Force Participation: An Age–Period–Cohort Analysis for Pakistan

Abstract Female participation rates in Pakistan’s labor force are well below regional averages despite approximately 9 percent growth the past three decades. To probe underlying causes of dynamics female Pakistan, we use a synthetic panel constructed from nationally representative surveys (1990–2017). The results indicate that rising population share working-age women does not account for changes aggregate rates. age–period–cohort analysis demonstrates cohorts born since 1900s, urban females’ age effects follow slight M-shaped curve, representing child-raising phase during which females reduce participation. cohort signal an increase after 1950s. This is particularly case married and with less education traditionally have weaker attachments to market due social norms. Therefore, understanding identifying factors can effect on inhibiting role norms central devising policies foster