Insights Panel: Gender Equality Norms among Urban Millennials – Midline Report
Summary
This report examines shifts in gender norms concerning childcare and breadwinning among urban millennials across Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Conducted through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, the study reveals varied perceptions based on progressive and traditional viewpoints. Notably, while childcare is increasingly viewed as a shared responsibility, breadwinning remains predominantly seen as a male domain, albeit with growing acceptance of women as financial contributors. The research highlights a clash between entrenched traditional roles and emerging progressive attitudes that challenge these norms. The influence of societal expectations plays a significant role in shaping these views, with factors like geography, education level, and exposure to diverse cultures impacting the adherence to traditional or progressive norms. This study highlights the complex nature of gender roles in urban Southeast Asia, revealing a range of attitudes that blend traditional and modern views, shaping discussions on gender equality.
Highlights
- Childcare Perception Shifts: Urban millennials in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are gradually adopting more progressive views on shared childcare responsibilities, though traditional norms persist.
- Breadwinning Roles: Despite a strong traditional bias towards male breadwinners, there is an increasing acceptance of women as significant economic contributors within families.
- Impact of Social Expectations: Traditional and progressive perspectives are influenced by social expectations, with varying acceptance levels influenced by cultural, educational, and geographical factors.
- Progressive vs. Traditional Clash: The study delineates the ongoing tension between progressive aspirations for gender equality and conservative adherence to established gender roles.
- Future Focus Areas: Suggests further research into the underlying reasons for persistent traditional views and the impact of moderate perspectives that blend traditional and progressive views.
