According to organization for human development, two out of three young people who neither study or work are women. A separate survey finds that increasingly women in Costa Rica (Ticas) are putting off having children in favor of attending university.
Despite the emphasis on higher education, women still find themselves paid disproportionately. According to a study by the National University men earn about 27 percent more than women.
Much of the problem is attributed to the responsibilities of child care. Of 921 complaints received by labor inspectors in 2013, the majority (about 612) are related to pregnancy. In Costa Rica, employers are required to provide paid leave for maternity and time for lactation.