Gender inequality in children’s publishing: a long-term battle

A study* commissioned by The Charter of Children’s Authors and Illustrators from the Axiales firm highlights several critical aspects of persistent inequalities in the children’s publishing sector.

The professional organization wishes to offer tools to respond to the issues of the survey, with “ actions that will be communicated later “, the Charter informs Books Weekly.

25% less pay

The data from this study, conducted as a follow-up to the 2020 General Assembly on Gender Equality, reveals that, although women represent 70% of authors in the children’s publishing sector, they earn on average 25% less than their male counterparts. In addition, women’s works remain less visible and less awarded, which affects their recognition and promotion.

These inequalities are exacerbated by a gendered distribution of professions and limited access for women to the best-paid positions. The children’s publishing sector, where royalties average 3%, is particularly affected by these disparities.

“A deep structural problem”

The persistence of these inequalities despite legislative measures underlines ” a deep structural problem “, according to the study. Gender stereotypes, the internalization of unfavorable social norms and the undervaluation of women’s skills are major obstacles to equality. Women, often seen as providers of family security rather than as major economic actors, are reluctant to negotiate their remuneration or claim their rights.

Young people, often attracted by the passion to create, find themselves confronted with low remuneration in publishing. The weakness of copyright, justified by high production costs and large print runs, is accepted by many, despite galloping inflation. This sector, perceived as a ” vase clos ” with its own recognition systems, struggles to economically value its creators. Female artists, in particular, are subject to this dynamic, oscillating between passion and precariousness, and are often forced to accept unfavorable economic conditions.

The influence of gender in negotiations

The internalization of stereotypes plays a crucial role in perpetuating gender inequalities, the study continues. Women, often confronted with derogatory attitudes, internalize these stereotypes, which affects their self-esteem and their perception of their skills. The feeling of illegitimacy is recurrent, pushing them to underestimate themselves and doubt their abilities. This internalization creates a dynamic where the fear of displeasing, of doing badly, of not being up to the task or of failing becomes central, limiting their ability to assert themselves and claim their rightful place in the professional environment.

Suggested solutions

The study concludes that while progress has been made, it is imperative to continue working towards real and lasting equality in children’s publishing. The solutions proposed by the latter offer a valuable roadmap to achieve this goal and ensure fair recognition of the talent and work of women in this sector.

*Find the complete study of the Charter in the linked document, to the left of the article