What is Gender Inequality?

Gender inequality is the unequal distribution of power and resources among men and women. This includes economic and political opportunities, and access to social services, such as health care and education. It also extends to the unequal allocation of household responsibilities and chores. Globally, women perform more hours of unpaid labor (such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children) than men do, which subsidizes household incomes and supports the economy. This leaves women with less time to work for money, contributing to the gender wage gap. The gap can be even greater based on a person’s race or ethnicity, occupation, and other factors.

Gender equality is a key element of economic development and human rights. In countries with higher levels of gender equality, poverty rates are lower, families are healthier and happier, and the economy is more productive. Gender equality is a fundamental human right and should be guaranteed to all people around the world.

The most common way to measure gender inequality is through the wage gap, but other measures exist. Time-use surveys, for example, can help us understand the gender divide by providing information on how much time is spent performing different types of chores and activities. These data can be used to identify the causes of disparities between men and women, such as discrimination during hiring or the effects of labor market forces on earnings.

In addition to these data sources, there is a wealth of qualitative research that has identified the root causes of inequality. Some of these issues have been addressed through policies that provide women and girls with equal opportunities, such as affirmative action or the elimination of gender bias in education and work.

These efforts have helped to narrow the gender gap in many places. However, there is a danger that these policies may perpetuate the belief that it is women who need fixing, and not the deeply entrenched systems of gender inequality that have developed over time. For instance, initiatives that focus on empowering women often assume that women lack ambition or do not want to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), so they need to be encouraged or trained to be more motivated.

This assumption contributes to the myth that women simply do not “have what it takes” to excel in STEM fields. In fact, it is a systemic issue that needs to be addressed with holistic, long-term solutions that include addressing the underlying issues and changing mindsets. Efforts to combat inequality must be more inclusive, and should not be limited to the workplace, but should encompass all areas of life – including the home, religious groups, community centers, etc. This also means calling out discriminatory jokes and other forms of prejudice, whether they are based on sexual orientation, racial or ethnic identity, gender, or disability status.