MIGS research highlights gender inequality in care work in Cyprus

A recent study conducted by the Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies (MIGS) under the European project CAREdiZO has revealed that care work in Cyprus remains disproportionately a female responsibility. The research highlights a persistent imbalance in domestic care, which negatively impacts women's professional trajectories and their financial independence. Senior researcher Maria Angeli noted that despite societal progress, established stereotypes continue to hinder equitable distribution of duties at home.

The study underscores that while some small businesses attempt to offer flexible working arrangements to support their employees, they often face significant resource limitations. The project documented various testimonies, including those of working parents Andreas Mousikos and Evangelia Pavlou, who represent a minority of couples sharing care duties, as well as experiences from small business employers and employees.

Experts now emphasize the transition from the concept of "work-life balance" to "work-personal life balance," arguing that the focus should be on the overall quality of life, health, and well-being. The findings serve as a critique of current social structures that perpetuate these imbalances, indicating that significant obstacles to gender equality remain deeply rooted in everyday life.