A comparative analysis of gendered labour market outcome in Africa and Asia’s least developed countries

Using data for 39 least developed countries, this chapter attempts to answer the question: do differences in skills and economic and sectorial performance determine gendered labour market outcomes in least developed countries? By evaluating trends in general macroeconomic and sectorial performance, and differences in education attainment across gender and between Africa and Asia least developed countries, we arrive at some compelling conclusions. For example, we find that agricultural sector is the largest employer, and the probability of being employed in least developed countries differs by gender. Moreover, evidence shows that workers with primary education are more likely to be unemployed relative to those with secondary education.