Wages theories and gender inequality in the labour market: A comparative analysis of the gender pay gap in the private sector

This study presents a comparative analysis of gender-based wage inequality by addressing both theoretical and empirical dimensions within the framework of labour market dynamics. In the theoretical section, various economic theories are analysed through a gender-sensitive lens. Classical, Keynesian, Neoclassical and Marxist approaches are discussed alongside human capital, discrimination and segmentation theories. At the policy level, gender equality strategies adopted in Türkiye and European countries are examined, as well as Türkiye's position in global gender indexes. The empirical section employs microdata from the 2022 Household Labour Force Survey conducted by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK) to apply the Mincer earnings function and the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition method, identifying the underlying components of the gender wage gap in the private sector. The findings show that wage disparities are shaped not only by individual attributes, but also by structural inequalities and discriminatory practices. The study evaluates institutional measures for addressing gender inequality and presents relevant policy recommendations. Emphasis is placed on the need to strengthen both legal frameworks and organisational mechanisms to ensure gender pay equity.