Gender in input-output analysis: introduction to the Special Issue

Abstract

Long-term economic growth arises from the interaction of technological change and structural transformation, evolving consumption patterns, and productivity gains. Historical evidence shows these processes do not affect women and men symmetrically; rather, they often reinforce pre-existing inequalities rooted in unequal positions within economic, social, and institutional systems. This Special Issue addresses a persistent institutional and analytical gap by applying a multi-sectoral modelling perspective to the study of gender differentials. By integrating gender-disaggregated information into input–output tables and models, Social Accounting Matrices, Computable General Equilibrium models and Global Value Chain frameworks, the six papers included reveal gendered impacts of international trade, the macroeconomic effects of wage equality, uneven policy effects and differentiated vulnerabilities to shocks such as COVID-19 and oil price changes. The studies demonstrate the value of gender-aware input–output and multisectoral analysis for understanding how economic growth, globalisation, and structural change affect men and women differently, and for informing the design of more inclusive and effective economic policies.