This working paper highlights structural and cultural issues that often determine the roles that women play within the HCT workforce and the strategies which can make a difference to their status and opportunities within the sector. Some of these issues relate to occupational sex segregation, wage parity, promotion opportunities, the role of women within micro-enterprises and the informal hotel, catering and tourism economy.

The working paper draws upon a broad range of published sources from international, regional and national studies of the sector and of wider analysis of gender roles within the economy. It also draws upon the outcomes of a survey of international hotel companies and a focus group meeting with senior industry executives which explore both current practice and the barriers to the more effective use of women within the industry workforce.