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Recent Initiatives in Improving the Collection of Time-use Data for Measuring Work: Some Issues

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  • Indira Hirway

Abstract

Time-use data are expected to help in understanding and addressing critical socioeconomic concerns including gender inequalities in a country. The data also help in integrating gender into economic analysis and economic policy making to promote inclusive development. Against this rising demand for time-use data, the supply of quality time-use data is not coming forth, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The problems faced by developing countries are basically of two types: those related to survey design and its different components and those pertaining to the collection of time-use data. The first type of problem can be resolved largely by compiling a comprehensive guidebook by UNSD--which is already done. The second type of problem requires radical changes in time-use data collection methods. This paper presents the recommendations made by UN Women, UNSD, the World Bank, ILO, and other experts, and makes an assessment of these recommendations. The paper argues that a light time diary, recommended by these organizations does not particularly help in accessing quality time-use data. The paper recommends that though a time-use survey is a complex survey, particularly in a country where literacy is low, the survey is feasible if adequate care is taken by the National Statistical Office (NSO).

Suggested Citation

  • Indira Hirway, 2025. "Recent Initiatives in Improving the Collection of Time-use Data for Measuring Work: Some Issues," Economics Working Paper Archive wp_1092, Levy Economics Institute.
    • Handle: RePEc:lev:wrkpap:wp_1092
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Indira Hirway, 2018. "Translating the SDG Commitments into Reality: Time Use Data for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in the Global South," Indian Journal of Human Development, , vol. 12(1), pages 93-108, April.
    2. Indira Hirway, 2010. "Understanding Poverty: Insights Emerging from Time Use of the Poor," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: Rania Antonopoulos & Indira Hirway (ed.), Unpaid Work and the Economy, chapter 2, pages 22-57, Palgrave Macmillan.
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