Beyond Paycheck: Non-Wage Benefits Disparities in Marginalized Communities in Diverse Enterprises

Abstract

This study investigates disparities in access to non-wage employment benefits—pension, medical facilities, and paid leave—among marginalized communities in Pakistan across different enterprise types. Using nationally representative data and logistic regression models, the analysis reveals that rural workers, women, persons with disabilities, and illiterate individuals face significantly lower odds of receiving these benefits, particularly in small private and hybrid organizations. The findings underscore structural inequalities rooted in geography, gender, education, and disability. The study calls for inclusive labor policies, benefit mandates, and targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to employment-related social protections for marginalized populations.