Survey: Only 22% of women hold management positions in Puerto Rico

In a collaborative effort, the Puerto Rico Institute of Statistics and the Women’s Advocate Office unveiled findings from the "Needs of Working Women" study, a comprehensive analysis based on responses from 13,283 participants. The study, conducted under the theme "We are all working women," delved into the challenges faced by women across various sectors in Puerto Rico. The voluntary and anonymous online survey covered topics such as employment status, breastfeeding, maternity, home and household structures, caregiver needs, quality of life, health, gender violence, and sociodemographic characteristics.

Key findings from the study reveal significant insights into the lives of working women in Puerto Rico. Employment-wise, 95% of respondents held one or more jobs, with 38% working in government agencies, and 22% in supervisory positions. Notably, 44% lacked guidance on the Affirmative Action Plan. Concerning breastfeeding, 47% reported a lack of lactation rooms at work, and 64% found the provided lactation time inadequate.

Maternity-related findings indicated that 72% of pregnant respondents felt their employers provided flexibility for medical appointments. Insights into home and household structures showed that 47% were paying off mortgages, while 57% had one to two children. Caregiver needs were prevalent, with 34% requiring assistance for children, dependents, or family members.

Regarding quality of life and health, the study found that most respondents reported good emotional and physical health. However, 63% experienced a double work shift, and 51% were incapacitated by painful menstruation for one to two days monthly. Alarming statistics on gender violence revealed that 34% faced workplace harassment, 24% experienced domestic violence, and another 24% encountered gender discrimination.

Sociodemographic characteristics highlighted that 46% of respondents were 50 or older, 73% held a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and 70% had a family income of $41,500 or less.

Acting Women’s Advocate Madeline Bermúdez expressed gratitude to the participants and emphasized that their detailed input would inform initiatives aimed at improving workplace conditions. The study's insights are poised to contribute to evidence-based decision-making and foster the creation of more equitable work environments in Puerto Rico. Orville Disdier-Flores, the Executive Director of the Institute of Statistics, underscored the importance of statistical objectivity in guiding societal progress based on comprehensive data.