n China, what has perpetuated gender-based division of labour?

In China, several factors have perpetuated the gender-based division of labour:

1. Traditional Beliefs: Chinese society has been heavily influenced by Confucianism, which emphasizes different roles for men and women. This has led to a deep-rooted belief that men should be the primary breadwinners, while women should focus on domestic duties.

2. Economic Reforms: The economic reforms in the late 20th century led to a shift from state-owned enterprises to private ones. This resulted in a greater demand for cheap labour, often filled by women. However, these jobs are typically low-paying and offer little room for advancement.

3. Education: Although China has made significant strides in improving access to education for girls, there is still a gender gap in certain areas, particularly in rural regions. This limits women's opportunities for higher-paying jobs.

4. Policy: The Chinese government's one-child policy, which was in effect from 1979 to 2015, has also contributed to the gender-based division of labour. The policy led to a preference for male children, who were seen as more capable of supporting their parents in old age. This has reinforced the idea that men should work and women should take care of the home.

5. Social Norms: Social norms and expectations also play a role. Women are often expected to balance work and family responsibilities, which can limit their career opportunities.

These factors combined have perpetuated the gender-based division of labour in China.