Abstract:

Global financial crisis had an impact on the socioeconomic parameters of European countries including the region of the Balkans. The purpose of the present work was to review the current trends in gender equality at work in the struggling economies of Balkan countries. Data on micro and macro economic indicators, employment rate and gender equality were gathered from published works, national and international databases.  The results indicate that gender inequality varies among countries and is affected by socio economic and cultural differences in the Balkans.  Balkan countries exhibit considerably lower wages and Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) compared to European average. Women in Balkan countries, exhibit lower income and higher unemployment compared to men.  Currently, gender inequality at work remains a characteristic of this region.  The challenge for modern societies, countries, European and international institutions is to protect the minorities and prevent gender inequalities at work, particularly when societies experience financial hardship.