Supporting equal distribution of care responsibilities
Supporting equal distribution of care responsibilities
Flexible or reduced working hours are generally used by women to fulfil care tasks (see Gender Care Gap). The equal division of care tasks can be supported by shorter working hours for fathers and a good range of care services for children and those in need of care. Role models for the new division of roles are also important.
Equal division of labour through shorter working hours for fathers
Shorter working hours for fathers are probably one of the most effective levers for an equal division of labour for care tasks in families. "Fathers' working hours have a statistically significant effect on the reverse traditionalisation of the partnership division of labour." (Zucco et al. 2021, 20)
"Part-time leadership" can break down role stereotypes
More flexible work organisation, such as "part-time leadership", can encourage new role distributions and improve the compatibility of leadership positions in both science and administration. However, it is controversial whether it is possible to keep up with the very dynamic field of science and research, which is characterised by a high level of time commitment, even when working part-time for longer periods (Leopoldina 2022).
Childcare and support for carers must be expanded
Making working hours and locations more flexible, for example by expanding the home office, can contribute to a better balance between academic appointments and family responsibilities. However, childcare options and support for caring for relatives must be further expanded, as otherwise a double burden - mostly for women - will arise. There is still a large gap in childcare facilities during the year or for a certain period of time (e.g. for international guests) as well as childcare options for conferences or short-term emergencies.
Equal distribution also important during studies
Flexibility can also increase Gender equality for women among students - but here too on the condition that it leads to an equal division of care tasks (see Flexibilising studies and teachingilise).
Compatibility of care tasks is not a gender equality measure
However, it should be noted that compatibility issues cannot be equated with equality-related structural measures (HRK 2021).
Special attention must be paid to pregnant students and pregnant academics in the qualification phase (see Gender Career Gap). Clear responsibilities and structures are just as necessary as university-wide sensitisation to the special situation of pregnant women. Professional support for pregnant women from a single source, which provides empathetic information about risks and the requirements of the Maternity Protection Act and actively supports the organisation of replacement benefits and compensation options, is indispensable (BMFSJ 2019).