From Dishes to Decisions: Exploring the Realities of Economic Inequalities in Ethnic Minority Households

When it comes to economic inequality, what do we already know about the challenges faced by Pakistani and Bangladeshi men and women, and how does it differ from the story we hear about White British men and women?

In the UK, economic inequalities among ethnic groups remain significant, with disparities evident in employment rates, wages, the division of unpaid labour, and financial responsibility. These inequalities are further exacerbated when ethnicity intersects with other dimensions of inequality, such as gender. For example, the experiences of a White British man in the UK may differ substantially from those of a Pakistani woman. What is striking is that Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi ethnic groups, despite migrating around the same time, exhibit very different economic outcomes. In fact, the differences among ethnic minority groups are often just as pronounced as those between minority and White British groups.

It is equally important to emphasise the inequalities within ethnic minority groups themselves. In fact, examining the variations within these groups often reveals more than simply focusing on group averages. For example, first-generation and second-generation Pakistani women may experience vastly different economic outcomes due to factors such as immigration status, and education. A central part of my work focuses on understanding the disparities within specific minority groups, particularly when gender is considered.

It is well known that minority women have high rates of unemployment and are amongst the lowest earners. Pakistani and Bangladeshi women are particularly disadvantaged, with unemployment rates far exceeding those of both their male counterparts and White British women. These employment challenges among ethnic minorities are also reflected in wage disparities. These disparities are not merely a result of working fewer hours or being in lower-paying jobs, they also stem from unequal access to opportunities. Many Pakistani and Bangladeshi women juggle multiple roles, caregiver, homemaker, and sometimes breadwinner further compounding their challenges.

Why is “who does the dishes” important when it comes to achieving economic equality?

It might seem like a small thing—who washes up after dinner—but these everyday tasks often serve as the building blocks of much larger issues. In many ethnic minority households, there is a strong expectation that women will take on most, if not all, domestic responsibilities. This includes everything from cooking and cleaning to caring for children and elderly family members.

Why does this matter? Because time is finite. If a woman spends several hours a day managing the home, that is time she cannot dedicate to building her career, pursuing further education, or even resting. This dynamic directly impacts women’s employment rates, career progression, and overall financial independence. The issue is particularly pronounced in ethnic minority households, where traditional gender roles and cultural expectations often have a stronger influence. Many of these households also tend to have lower incomes compared to the White British majority, adding another layer of complexity.

Interestingly among ethnic minority couples, particularly Pakistani and Bangladeshi families, traditional gender roles are often more rigid. My research shows that Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Indian women take on a significantly higher share of housework compared to men in their own ethnic groups and White British women. The division of housework is deeply gendered, with women typically handling tasks like cooking and cleaning, while men are more likely to take on less frequent tasks such as DIY projects. However, when men participate more in housework, women are more likely to work outside the home. This pattern holds true across both White British and ethnic minority groups.

This shift benefits not only the individual but also the household, boosting income and challenging entrenched stereotypes. In many households, the division of labour is not just about chores, but about power dynamics, especially when it comes to financial contributions. So yes, who does the dishes absolutely matters — it is about far more than clean plates, it is about equal opportunities.

When it comes to financial decisions, does earning the pay slip determine who holds the purse strings?

A pay slip represents far more than just money, it symbolises independence, agency, and empowerment.

In many Pakistani and Bangladeshi households, men are often regarded as the primary breadwinners. This role can bring a sense of pride and responsibility but also immense pressure. Conversely, when women earn an income, it is often viewed as secondary or supplementary. Yet, their earnings frequently play a crucial role in ensuring household stability.

What is particularly fascinating is how earnings influence financial decision-making. In households where both partners contribute financially, decisions tend to be more collaborative. In contrast, when only one partner earns, an unspoken hierarchy often shapes decision-making. This dynamic is especially pronounced in South Asian families, where cultural norms heavily influence gender roles. For instance, White British women are more likely to take an active role in financial decision-making compared to their Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi counterparts, where men typically hold greater authority. Notably, as women’s working hours increase, so does their financial decision-making responsibility. However, traditional attitudes toward gender roles play a significant role. When both men and women hold more traditional views, women’s decision-making responsibility diminishes. Interestingly, women’s attitudes toward gender roles are a stronger predictor of financial decision-making responsibility than those of men.

By starting conversations about wage disparities, employment opportunities, the division of household responsibilities, and what pay slips symbolise in terms of financial agency, inclusion, and empowerment, we take an important step toward building a more equitable future.