Band 9: The graphs below show the numbers of male and female workers in 1975 and 1995 in several employment sectors of the Republic of Freedonia. Write a report for a university teacher describing the information shown. » You should write at least 150 words.

The two graphs compare the number of male and female employees in six different sectors in the Republic of Freedonia in 1975 and 1995.

Overall, men made up the larger share of the workforce in most sectors in both years, although female employment increased considerably over the 20-year period.

In 1975, manufacturing was strongly dominated by men, with about 700 thousand male workers compared to only around 300 thousand women. Men also clearly outnumbered women in finance and banking. In contrast, wholesale and retail trade employed a high number of women, although men still had slightly higher figures. The public sector (non-defence) showed relatively balanced employment, while defence had the lowest number of workers, especially among women.

By 1995, employment levels had risen in most sectors, particularly for women. Female participation increased significantly in communications and finance, narrowing the gender gap. Wholesale and retail trade became the largest employer of women, with figures close to 800 thousand. Although men continued to dominate manufacturing and defence, the difference between male and female workers was generally smaller than in 1975.