Glass Ceiling and women employees in Asian organizations: a tri-decadal review

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of the paper is to review and analyse different glass ceiling studies conducted in different Asian countries during the three decades after the introduction of the metaphor. It also describes the antecedents and the consequences of the glass ceiling. Design/methodology/approach The method chosen for the study was a computerised search of available materials using the keywords relating to glass ceiling in Asia and latest reports from international organisations. Findings The perception of glass ceiling existence in Asian countries has been sorted out region-wise. Different factors for glass ceiling have been categorised under different theories. Research limitations/implications The study includes a multiregional aspect of glass ceiling, which will be useful for further studies in this area. The limitation of the study is that it did not assess the awareness and influence of glass ceiling in each industry. Practical implications Since the study showed glass ceiling practices in different countries in Asia, it might help policy makers for making proper decisions for breaking of glass ceiling. Social implications The study may be a part of empowering women as it analyses areas of inequality and finds out antecedents. Originality/value This paper is the first to shed light on glass ceiling on a multicultural and multiregional aspect.