How to Close the Gender Gap

Gender inequality is one of the world’s most pervasive forms of inequality, denying people their rights and trapping them in poverty. It exists in every country, region and culture around the globe. The systems that underpin our societies – including laws, rules and norms – create gender discrimination that keeps women and men apart. Despite the efforts of many people and organizations, the gap between men and women is still far too wide. In fact, it will take 131 years to close it at the current rate of progress, according to the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Global Gender Gap Report.

A fundamental cause of inequality is the way that society allocates jobs and opportunities. The global economy is increasingly segregated, with different industries and occupations catering to men and women in very distinct ways. For example, women are more likely to work in low-wage, vulnerable industries, while men tend to be overrepresented in higher-paying, managerial positions. As a result, women and girls miss out on vital skills and career advancement that are essential for social mobility.

In the United States, the gender wage gap is even more pronounced, with men earning more than women in all sectors of the economy. This gap is largely driven by the way that our culture — including the media and workplace culture — reinforces harmful stereotypes and limits the careers of women. The solution is to create a more diverse, inclusive workplace that recognizes the value of women and girls’ contributions, and provides equal access to professional development opportunities for everyone.

Across the globe, gender inequality impacts children in particular. Boys and girls are at equal risk of missing out on quality education, which is necessary for prosperity. When children don’t receive an adequate education, they are less likely to escape poverty or become engaged citizens. This inequality also contributes to child labour, gang violence and recruitment into armed groups.

When governments invest in girls’ education, they not only empower young women, but also benefit entire communities. By ensuring that all children have access to an adequate education, countries can reduce poverty, child mortality and conflict.

Another key step in tackling inequality is to increase the number of women and girls in parliaments and government institutions, and make sure that they have opportunities for growth. This requires that all political institutions promote a diverse and inclusive workforce, and that they establish transparent and fair processes for the nomination and election of candidates.

Similarly, the private sector can ensure that their workplaces are fair and equitable by creating an environment where everyone feels included, valued and supported. This includes promoting policies that provide equal opportunities for women and girls, such as a flexible working schedule, paid parental leave and support for re-entry into the workforce. It also means promoting diversity in the hiring process, and making sure that all employees have the opportunity to advance within the company based on their skills and contributions, regardless of their gender.