he problem of work–family balance has not yet been articulated in developing
countries as it has been in the developed countries, though work–family tensions
are growing in developing countries as well. Against this background, the
author examines the distribution of female employment in Iran and considers its possible
determinants – with female labour force participation a mere 12.5 per cent in
2006. Drawing on a survey of 800 highly educated mothers, she highlights the crucial
need for better childcare facilities to improve women’s work–family balance and
labour force participation, arguing for a policy approach combining formal/informal
childcare with working time regulation.