MAPS OF MEANING - GENDER INEQUALITY IN THE REGIONS OF WESTERN-EUROPE

Employment data from the REGIO database are mapped using a geographic information system. Orthodox mapping is considered to be a useful way of portraying the continuing universal nature of gender inequality in employment alongside the wide, national and regional variations in the extent of the inequality. The maps also illustrate the growing femini zation of employment in western Europe and the rapidity with which gen der roles are changing. However, while reference is made to the gender ed welfare regimes, gender arrangements and differentiated patriarchy explanations of gender inequality, caution is urged in terms of drawin g inferences from changing gender roles in employment to wider changes in gender relations.