Sidsel Genet Christensen

Name of the project/report:
Exploring Gender Inequality within the Workplace: A Human Rights Analysis of the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty

Tell us about the report and why did you choose to write about this subject?
I decided to focus on the intersection of the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty because it’s a topic that deeply resonates with me on both a personal and professional level. As someone deeply passionate about women’s rights, I’ve always been intrigued by the challenges women face in the workforce, particularly those who juggle motherhood alongside their careers.

My interest in this subject was further fuelled by the groundbreaking work of Claudia Goldin, whose report received the Nobel Prize in 2023. Seeing her research recognized on such a prestigious platform not only validated the importance of this topic but also motivated me to delve deeper into understanding its implications.

I believe that addressing issues such as the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty is crucial for achieving gender equality and ensuring the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their gender or parental status. By shedding light on these systemic disparities through my report, I aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on gender equality and advocate for meaningful policy reforms that support women in the workforce.

Ultimately, my decision to write about this subject stem from my commitment to advancing women’s rights and creating a more just and equitable society for future generations

Did you work in team or independently? How was it to work in team/independently?
In this instance, I chose to work independently on the report. While I have valuable experience collaborating in teams, particularly during my bachelor’s degree where group projects were common, I felt it was important to challenge myself and develop my skills in independent research and writing, especially given the requirements of our upcoming master’s thesis.

Working in teams has its merits; it fosters communication, enhances leadership abilities, and allows for diverse perspectives to be considered. Collaborative projects also provide an opportunity to share ideas and support one another through the process.

However, I recognized the need to hone my ability to work autonomously, particularly when tackling a complex and comprehensive research project like this one. Writing the report independently allowed me to take full ownership of the process, from conceptualization to execution. It provided me with the opportunity to delve deeply into the subject matter, conduct thorough research, and develop my analytical and writing skills.

While it was certainly a challenging endeavour, I found the experience incredibly rewarding. It taught me valuable lessons in time management, critical thinking, and self-reliance. Additionally, it prepared me for the rigors of independent research and writing that will be required for my future academic and professional pursuits.

Overall, while both team collaboration and independent work have their merits, I believe that tackling this project solo was a valuable learning experience that will undoubtedly benefit me in my academic and professional journey

What was challenging in the process of writing the report?
Several challenges arose during the process of writing the report, but each presented an opportunity for growth and learning. One of the primary challenges was establishing the human rights framework for a topic that may not immediately appear to be a traditional human rights concern. The intersection of the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty presented a nuanced issue that required careful consideration to understand its implications within a human rights context. Convincing others, including one of my supervisors, of this perspective was initially challenging but ultimately reinforced the importance of framing the topic through a human rights lens.

Additionally, focusing on the United States as the primary context of analysis posed its own set of challenges. With limited personal network connections in the U.S., particularly in the realm of academia and policymaking, securing interviews and accessing relevant data proved to be more difficult than anticipated. Furthermore, the emphasis on domestic laws in the U.S. posed a contrast to my initial desire to explore international legal frameworks, which required me to adapt my research approach and delve deeper into understanding the intricacies of U.S. labour laws and policies.

Despite these challenges, they provided valuable learning opportunities. Navigating these obstacles allowed me to sharpen my research and analytical skills, refine my ability to critically evaluate legal frameworks, and broaden my understanding of the complexities inherent in addressing gender disparities within different cultural and legal contexts.

Ultimately, overcoming these challenges strengthened the quality and depth of the report, reinforcing my commitment to advocating for gender equality and human rights within the realm of labour and employment.

What skills and experiences from previous courses in human rights were helpful during your work with the report?
My previous courses during my master’s in human Rights and Democracy provided me with foundational knowledge and skills that were instrumental in my work on the report. Firstly, gaining insights into human rights history and law equipped me with a fundamental understanding of the principles and frameworks underpinning human rights discourse. This knowledge enabled me to navigate complex human rights issues and articulate why I believed the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty constituted human rights concerns.

Moreover, the research strategies I learned in human rights courses, particularly in legal analysis, were invaluable during the preparation of the report. These strategies allowed me to conduct thorough research, analyse relevant legal frameworks, and draw evidence-based conclusions. Additionally, my previous experience in analysing court cases proved beneficial in conducting legal analysis within the context of gender disparities in the workforce.

Overall, the skills and experiences gained from my coursework in human rights provided me with the necessary tools to approach the report critically, conduct rigorous research, and effectively communicate my findings. They played a significant role in shaping the methodology and analysis of the report, ultimately contributing to its depth and credibility.

What skills and experiences from this course will help you in the future?
The course provided me with valuable skills and experiences that I believe will greatly benefit me in the future. Firstly, it served as excellent practice in conducting research and writing professional-level papers, which are skills I anticipate utilizing extensively in my future career. The opportunity to delve into a complex topic, such as the Gender Pay Gap and the Motherhood Penalty, and produce a comprehensive report has equipped me with the confidence and proficiency to tackle similar projects in a professional setting.

Additionally, the course enhanced my ability to conduct legal analysis, a skill that will undoubtedly be valuable in various aspects of my future career. Understanding legal frameworks and their implications, particularly in relation to gender disparities in the workforce, will enable me to approach complex issues with a critical and informed perspective.

Moreover, the course provided me with invaluable insights into the experiences of women and mothers in the working market. This knowledge is not only relevant to my academic pursuits but also holds personal significance as I aspire to become a working mother one day. Understanding the challenges and barriers faced by women in balancing career and family responsibilities will inform my future decisions and advocacy efforts in promoting gender equality and work-life balance.

Overall, the skills and experiences gained from this course have equipped me with a strong foundation for my future endeavors, both professionally and personally. I am confident that the knowledge and expertise acquired will serve me well as I pursue my career goals and continue to advocate for gender equality and social justice.