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GENDER DISPARITIES IN ACCESS TO ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES AND THEIR POLITICAL
REPERCUSSIONS
1.0 Introduction
Gender inequalities in the access to economic opportunities have far-reaching implications that are not
limited to the economic criteria, but also affect the political representation and decision making. Despite the
positive steps that have been taken, the continued gender gaps in the labor force participation, education,
entrepreneurship, and leadership positions still hinder the complete utilization of women's economic
capacity and their impact on policies that determine social systems. The most resilient signs of this
imbalance is the gender pay gap that is seen in many countries. A comprehensive study conducted by
Nopo, Daza, and Ramos (2012) analyzed data from 64 countries and revealed a stark reality: women in
general received 17% lower income than men. This gap is particularly striking in some regions and sectors
that highlights the generalized character of the problem. In addition to impairing women's financial
independence, this inequality continues to fuel a gender based power imbalance within households and
communities. The consequences of this gender earnings gap are drastic. Economically, it hinders women's
ability to accumulate wealth and invest in their future thus creating a poverty cycle and stifles overall
economic growth. Socially, it helps to keep the status quo of the stereotypes that limit women to lower roles
and perpetuates the cycle of subordination and exclusion. Politically it disadvantages women’s
representation in decision-making processes which in turn hinders the adoption of policies that address
gender inequality and promote women rights. Addressing gender disparities in economic participation
requires a comprehensive approach that includes policy reforms, targeted investments in education and
skills development, and initiatives to combat discrimination and oppression. Through gender-sensitive
policies and an environment that encourages women's economic empowerment, societies can use the
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untapped potential of their female populations to attain gender equality and development that takes
everyone into account.
The economic costs related to gender inequality can be calculated and are ubiquitous. The International
Monetary Fund (IMF) which was established by (Ostry et al., 2018) firmly supports this view, demonstrating
that the economic gains that could be achieved by closing the gender gap in labor force participation is
remarkable. However, in some other countries, these efforts might result in a huge increase in the GDP
even by 35%. In addition, the research shows the other positive results associated with women’s
empowerment such as income redistribution, poverty eradication, and economic resilience. Thus the
research reveals the obvious economic prospects that come with the observance of gender parity in all the
sectors of society. The connection between the disparity of gender and the economic growth in Europe is
further supported in the study done by Klasen and Minasyan (2017). The paper points out that, if gender
gaps in employment and education are reduced, it could be the factor that will cause the highest economic
growth rates for the whole continent. Of note, in the Eastern European region the consequences of the
reduction in the gender gaps in the fields of employment and education are most likely to be felt. This
alludes to the fact that women’s rights should not be seen as a social justice issue only but as a key
contributor to economic growth and prosperity. However, all of these studies combined demonstrate the
economic necessity of increasing women's equality. Through the full engagement of women in the labor
market and with guaranteeing the equal distribution of education and jobs between both genders, societies
are capable of releasing tremendous economic potential. As a matter of fact, through the process of women
empowerment, policymakers not only generate more equal and democratic countries but also contribute to
economic growth and welfare for everyone. Hence, it is not just an issue of gender rights but also a wise
economic plan whose effects spread out to the level of individuals, communities, and nations.
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Gender inequalities in economic opportunities are rooted in age-old social norms, cultural traditions, and
institutional systems that have been designed to provide men with a superior status to women. Stotsky
(2006), as cited in her survey, stated that these disparities are continued by discriminatory practices in
education, job creation and access to land and credit. In this way, these barriers to women's economic
participation reinforce and perpetuate gender inequality, keeping women from benefiting fully from
economic activities. The consequences of gender inequality are, not just economic growth and
development, but go beyond the economic. Tzannatos (1999) in his work focuses on the wider social and
political implications of women who are only in a limited number of jobs and have no say in economic
decision-making processes. This may sustain gender imbalance of power within the society. Such
imbalance as well as women's rights and autonomy is also the factor that affects the adoption of policies
aimed at addressing women's issues and interests. Through the practice of keeping women away from the
decision-making positions regarding the economy, the societies are at the risk of missing out on the
opinions and perspectives that are very important for the purpose of addressing the gender disparities and
creating an inclusive development. Moreover, gender inequality strengthens discriminatory images and
notions that women are bound to inferior roles, and this, in turn, continues the circle of marginalization and
exclusion. Such exclusion also denies women the opportunity to contribute towards the advancement of
their person and profession and thus impoverishes the society as a whole. Achieving gender equality in the
access to economic opportunities is possible if the existing discrimination is eliminated, gender norms that
have held for ages are challenged, and enablers that support women's empowerment and participation in
economic life are created. By identifying the wider social and political implications of gender inequality and
by implementing proactive approaches aimed at tackling its sources, societies provide the platform for more
inclusive and equitable development.
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The resolution of gender inequity in the economic sphere requires a multi-faceted solution which takes into
account various areas, from education to legal changes and the promotion of gender-sensitive policies. The
UN Development Programme's Human Development Report of 2020 underlines the timeliness of the need
for a change of paradigm that recognizes the interconnectedness of gender equality, sustainable
development and human well-being. This acknowledgment is an encouragement to employ holistic
approaches that are targeted at the root causes of gender imbalances and which promote change in
multiple dimensions. the gender inequalities in how women get to participate in economic activities have a
multiplier effect that goes beyond the commonly used economic indicators. They influence the
representation within political institutions, policy-making processes, and the overall health of communities.
It is not only a moral responsibility to address the gaps, the closing of which is a critical action that will lead
to economic growth that is inclusive and sustainable, poverty reduction, and the creation of more equitable
societies. Gender equality and women’s full economic participation and decision making can also release
the human capital of society and can improve the productivity and innovation as well as ensure that all
members share the benefits of economic development. Consequently, it is not only gender equality that is a
fundamental part of social justice but this is also a key tool for achieving the sustainable development goals
and a better life for people.
2.0 Persistent gender gaps in labor force participation
2.1 Cultural norms and societal expectations
The gender gaps in labor force participation are still a persistent issue to deal with, and this persistence is
because of a lot of different factors, each of them adding to the complexity of the problem. The factor which
is very important is the impact of cultural norms as well as social expectations that are usually based on
traditional gender roles and which define women’s position in a society. According to Kleven and Landais
(2017), these cultural norms are very significant as they result in women being mainly responsible for child
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care and as a result they are expected to choose their child care over career advancement. On the other
hand, insufficient children care centers present one of the highest obstacles for women's joining the
workforce. Since the absence of child care facilities that are readily available and affordable, many women
are left with the alternative to pursue career opportunities and carry out caregiving duties, and mostly they
end up fully opting out of the labor force or participate in part-time and informal employment. On the top of
this, gender-based discrimination in hiring procedures further deepen the gender gaps in work participation.
Women might be subjected to gender biases and stereotypes which debunk their qualifications for some
jobs or industries so there will be unequal opportunities for employment and advancement. In order to
eliminate the existing gender gaps of female participation in the labor market, the overall strategies applied
should consider these interconnected factors. This comes along with the task of uprooting the established
cultural norms and gender related societal expectations, creating equal access to affordable and quality
childcare services, and implementing the policies and practices to defeat gender based discrimination in
the workplace. Through elimination of these impediments, societies can achieve better gender-fair labor
markets which include all categories of people regardless of gender.
2.2 Lack of affordable childcare facilities
The low number of affordable childcare facilities aggravate the gender gap in the labor market, and mostly
affect women who are the most likely to bear the primary responsibility for taking care of the children.
Inaccessible and expensive childcare options compel many women to make hard choices between being
fully involved in their work and providing care for their family (Ngov, 2008). This bias in fact, really affects
women, particularly those from the lower income bracket, who may encounter other financial problems and
lack other child care options. Women’s chances of having a job and getting an education as well as career
advancement are restricted by the financial inaccessibility of childcare facilities. Due to the fact that the
women who fail to get the reliable childcare may be forced to give up the higher education or the training
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programs that could be a great addition to their skills and qualifications and that is why they may reach the
lower level of earning potential and career prospects. In addition, the absence of affordable childcare
facilities can be responsible for poverty and income disparities as it can perpetuate cycles of poverty
especially among single mothers and female headed households who may already be having difficulties
meeting their ends. Without a good childcare infrastructure, these women will be likely to be stuck in low-
wage and insecure employment, or they will be compelled to use poor and unreliable childcare services
that could diminish their productivity. The absence of affordable childcare centers is one of the main
obstacles to women's achievement and gender equality in the workforce. The introduction of policies and
programs aimed at extending the availability of affordable and top-notch child care can give women the
chance to get education and work, contribute to the family earnings, and reach high levels of financial
independence. Implementing a comprehensive childcare infrastructure and support system improve the
accessibility to the labor market for women and consequently enable them to fully participate and excel.
2.3 Gender-based discrimination in hiring
Besides, gender-based discrimination in hiring practices keeps the gender inequalities in labor market
outcomes, preventing women from having job opportunities and career advancement. For example, as
evidenced by studies, such as those by Kleven and Landais (2017), there exist biases and stereotypes that
deter women from being recruited and promoted. The emergence of discriminatory practices like unequal
pay, limited access to leadership positions, and systemic barriers to entry lead to the persistence of gender
gaps in labor force participation and productivity growth (Loko & Diouf, 2009). Such practices are not only a
threat to individual women but also the entire economic system and the societal well-being. When capable
people are neglected or denied employment based on their gender, it not only invites gender imbalance but
also denies the economy of useful talent and contributions. The under-utilization of women capacities and
potential hinders productivity and innovation, which as a consequence limit the economic growth and
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wellbeing of the society. Eliminating these structural obstacles and fostering gender parity in the workplace
are the key prerequisites to the realization of gender equality and sustainable economic growth. Policies
and initiatives that target the elimination of gender-based discrimination and the promotion of equal
opportunities for women in recruitment and advancement, as well as addressing systemic inequalities in
organizations, can help to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces. As a result, developing a culture
of diversity and tolerance can increase labor productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction in individual
companies and the economy as a whole. Through the combat of gender-based discrimination and
promotion of gender equality in the labor market, the societies will be able to use the full potential of their
workforce, attain economic growth, and create more successful and resilient societies. Guaranteeing that
women are given equal chances to be part of the workforce and do well is a matter of both fairness and
social justice and also a very important condition for the creation of sustainable and inclusive economies.
3.0 Unequal access to education and skills training
3.1 Dropout rates among female students
Dropout rates for female students are a persistent problem, and it is the main reason why the gap in
education and women's economic empowerment keeps growing. According to Kabeer (2012), the
damaging consequences of dropout rates on girls' chances of being employed in future and generating
income are beyond doubt. Cultural values and social norms are those factors which are usually responsible
for girls dropping out of school in many contexts, thereby reinforcing the education inequality. Those
disparities are not only women's access to more rewarding jobs but also continue poverty and exclusion
cycles. Leaving school without completing their education, women are most likely to end up in low-skill, low-
paying jobs, which helps to keep them in poverty and deprives them of advancement opportunities. To
reduce the dropout rates in female students, special interventions designed to address the causes of the
gender inequality in education and provide support to the vulnerable groups of the population are needed.
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This may involve putting in place policies and programs that eliminate barriers to education like a lack of
schools, gender-based violence, early marriage and household chores. In addition to that, programs meant
to promote girls' education and retention in school, for example, through scholarship programs, mentorship
programs, and life skills training, can help reduce dropout rates and empower girls to achieve their full
potential. Besides that, it is necessary to collaborate with communities, families, and stakeholders to
change the harmful gender norms that sustain inequalities in education. Through implementing gender-
sensitive strategies to education and by creating an environment that supports girls' dreams and hopes for
education, societies can end the cycle of poverty and segregation, and women can be empowered to
participate actively in their communities and economy. Reducing dropout rates of female students is
necessary for the purposes of promoting gender equality and women's financial emancipation. Investing in
girls' education and retention in school will allow societies to fully tap into women and girls' potential, thus
creating an environment for growth and development for all.
3.2 Gender stereotypes in career counseling
The gender stereotypes in career counseling thus contribute to the worsening of the situation of inequality
in access to education and vocational training, eventually creating an imbalance in the labor market based
on gender. As demonstrated by Klasen (2002), the social norms and expectations constitute the basis for
the educational and career choices making girls choose the fields that are traditionally assigned to care
giving and household works. This way reinforces the gender divisions in education and workplaces, which
restrict women's chances to upgrade economically and thus the gender wage gap and occupation
segregation persist. Career counseling programs are the ones that are doing a lot in breaking the
stereotype and bias that are the main obstacles for women in choosing their career and in accomplishing
their goals. Rather than re-affirming traditional gender roles, such programs should be designed to be more
inclusive and provide holistic learning to help girls and women explore different career choices and realize
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their full potential. This can entail furnishing data about non-traditional career paths, encouraging positive
role models, and offering mentorship opportunities in order to encourage and embolden girls to pursue their
hobbies and goals. Along with that, career counseling programs should include the systemic barriers that
are hampering women education and skills training like gender-based harassment and discrimination in
educational environments, admission bias and lack of support in STEM fields Through campaigning for
gender-specific policies and practices and adopting individualized solutions to solve the problems that are
typical for women and girls, the career counseling programs can contribute to the gender equality in
education and employment. Ensuring that gender stereotypes are not perpetuated in career counseling is a
key factor in the attempt to create a gender-neutral environment and to empower women to choose a
profession they love and that brings them fulfillment. Through the resistance of traditional gender norms
and supplying the programs inclusive and supportive advice, career counseling can play an important role
in the destruction of the barriers and creation of the equal and inclusive pathways for education and
occupation for everyone.
3.3 Lack of female role models
The lack of role model women in enlightenment and technical skills education not only aggravates the
gender disparities but also strengthens the stereotypes that are related to women economic position. As
described above, the media coverage of women in authority positions and in areas that were previously
considered men’s preserve are key factors that motivate and encourage the young girls to follow the same
steps. Female role models not only become the agents of change but also fight against patriarchal
concepts that strongly affix their view on narrowed life prospect of women either in the education or
workplace. These mentors prove effective because they not only offer inspiration but also demonstrate by
their actions that a woman can be as successful as a man and that gender should not represent an
obstacle in the way to one’s goal fulfillment. With women defying stereotypes and showcasing their
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capability orally across different fields, female role models counter myths that women are weak or
incapable of leadership. Furthermore, women in such careers not only stand as an inspiration to young girls
but also empower those girls to see themselves as capable of taking up these jobs that had previously
been stereotyped as male- oriented. The visibility of female role models should be highlighted hand in hand
with all the policies and strategies that are geared towards celebrating gender equality and creating
conducive learning places that are not gender-biased. Additionally, educational institutions need to make a
deliberate move in the aspect of getting more women lecturers and administrative staff, so that students are
exposed to different kind of views and role models from the time they join the institutions. Developing
learning environments that build upon inclusivity and caters for all students who feel qualified for their goals
and that in return promote a culture that is diverse and equal. Through enlarging the sound of women in
education and skills training, communities can ignite the fire and be the agents for future women leaders
and innovators which is the platform of a much fair and inclusive future.
4.0 Barriers to entrepreneurship and business ownership
4.1 Limited access to financial resources
Lack of financial literacy becomes one of the serious obstacles for women who wants to start their own
business and to hold the ownership of the business which, in turn, leads to gender gaps in economy
participation and addressing those gender inequalities. In accord with Goldin (2014), the gender gap
regarding financial resources remains one of the most persistent problems, girls and women have more
difficulties than boys and men in obtaining credit to pursue their business. What causes this inequality is
different things like systemic biases in credit, low amounts of collateral, or even gender discrimination in
financial institutions. The consequences of this limited access to financial resources are tremendous, as it
sets a cap to a woman's ability to start as well as grow businesses and thus, prevents her from becoming
economically empowered and adds to economic growth reduction. There is one basic capital and women
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entrepreneurs suffer with the difficulty in investing in equipments, employing workers and expanding
operations, therefore, the potential for success and innovation is restrained. Combating this hindrance
involves formulated interventions in order to improve women's financial access and business support
services. For instance, microfinance loans which are provided to people with little access to traditional
banking services, particularly women, has shown to give some women a push to own businesses and help
with economic development in disenfranchised communities. Moreover, the endeavors towards expanding
venture capital and angel investor networks can be an opportunity for converting capital into an asset for
women to succeed in the market as well as be competitive. Furthermore, offering customized business
growth help such as training, mentorship, and networking chances can assist the women entrepreneurs to
develop their entrepreneurship through preparation for the difficulties they face to start and mature a
business. By taking into account of the unique obstacles women entrepreneurs face in accessing capital
and establishing sustainable enterprises, policymakers and stakeholders will be in a position to maximize
the productive power of women entrepreneurs - they will create an inclusive economic growth model that
will diminish inequalities in accessing the meaningful business.
4.2 Restrictive laws and regulations hindering
Laws, regulations and limitations are forceful impediments which prevent women from being the
entrepreneurs and business owners they aspire to be when instead they should be having the chance to
prevail over gender discrimination and achieve economic emancipation. Zahidi et al. (2011) in their
extensive analysis lay the case to how the women of the world are discriminated through the legal and
regulatory barriers in all aspects including, access financial services, ownership of property and dealing
with complex process of business registration. These means of discrimination not only restrict women to be
just mere participants in the formal economy, beyond that, it also restrains their potential to grow and be
involved in entrepreneurship. Thus, the gender discrimination obstacles enhances what is already the
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gender inequalities and the cycle goes on and on which makes women economic weakness to persist. But
to deal with these challenges, the regulations and laws that govern the oil and gas industry has to be
reformed. Hence, governments can create an environment conducive to the growth of women businesses.
This refers to guaranteeing the same rights of credit and property ownership, simplifying the business
registration process, designing tailor-made assistance and resources that are appropriate for women-
owned businesses (Hausmann, Tyson, & Zahidi, 2011). Moreover, at the top of the list is as revenueing
enlightenment and upgrading of knowledge among political leaders, legal system, and business
entrepreneurs about the importance of gender-balanced legislation and regulations is a substantial way to
develop an equality-oriented business environment. Through the attitude of destroying the barriers that
exist in the legal and regulatory policies of the society women will become able to contribute to the growth
of an inclusive form of economy as an unexposed part of the female entrepreneurs, and speed up the
achievement of the goals of sustainable development. Furthermore, joint work by governments, civil society
organizations and private sector is crucial as something that can drive the comprehensive reforms and
creates the environment that supports women entrepreneurs as the catalysts of the social and economic
development (World Bank,2019).
4.3 Lack of support networks
The non-availability of a sturdy support systems and mentorship programmes becomes a hurdle to women
entrepreneurs to do a better business compared to men. According to the ILO (2018), social networks
stand out as among the most important components of such networks - they provide women with useful
information, support, and a means to both build correlation and learn together. On the other hand, women
encounter the society being complicated, as they find the informal channels of networking and mentorship
being the major barriers to their innovation and entrepreneurship. Often lack of these support may limit
their networking and mentorship capabilities, a situation that will make the entrepreneurial journey difficult,
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hence increasing their isolation and in the end destroying the spirit of innovation among the women
entrepreneurs. The manifestation of this inequality is quite obvious in the male dominated sectors and
industries, where the women may face challenges forming these links and gaining access to the necessary
resources (Anderson, 2020). In addition, a woman may find herself in situations where traditional gender
roles as well societal expectations that discourage her from taking part in networking opportunities, thus
perpetuating the cycle of exclusion and limiting their professional rising(Youssef et al. , 2019). To resolve
this problem, the need is to make up strong networks that will be very significant and in line with the target
group of women. Initiative such as the women's business associations, the mentor programs and the
networking platforms can provide women with the needed connection, collaboration, and from which they
can access experience professionals that can guide them (ILO, 2018). Unlike the past, these platforms not
only offer limited advice and support but also act as sources of inspiration and confidence, giving women
wings and encouraging them to work hard and conquer the challenges involved (Anderson, 2020). Through
the diversification and inclusion of the members and participants of these networks and programs, the
stakeholders can achieve equitable opportunities for all the women who are early entrepreneurs,
disregarding their gender (Youssef et al. , 2019). There will be a collaborative approach between
governments, business and civil society organizations, thus societies will have the much needed
ecosystem where women business entrepreneurs can excel, as a result they will contribute to inclusive
economic growth and social change.
5.0 Impact on political representation and decision-making
5.1 Underrepresentation of women in governance
The small number of women in governance translates to the perpetuation of systematic gender inequalities
in political representation and decision-making processes, causing the achievement of gender equality and
inclusive governance to be stalled. The importance of women in the world's economic development where
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Duflo (2012) is concerned, and the inclusion of women in political leadership positions is crucial for a policy
making that is inclusive and addresses the needs of different groups of people. The situation has however
improved but still women are not represented equally in political institutions across the globe. This leads to
the situation where women's contributions on policy decisions are not heard, thus contradicting the principle
of equal representation (Krook & O'Brien, 2012). Although it is imperative to employ a variety of approaches
to achieve gender parity in electoral process, to break down structural barriers to women's political
participation, and to set up women's leadership development programs, the task is not unattainable. The
measures such as gender quotas, electoral reforms, and capacity-building programs which are designed to
eliminate the disparities and to create platforms for women entry into political office are the things that can
help (Htun & Jones, 2002). Additionally, a good political culture that values diversity, inclusion and women
leadership should be created and this will help in the eradication of the gender biases and stereotypes that
have been there for long and which hinder women from occupying leadership positions in governance
(Krook & O'Brien, 2012). The joint actions and prolonged advocacy could help the societies to realize the
leadership qualities in women that are unutilized in the governance, and consequently more women in
decision-making positions, more diversity, and more responsiveness towards addressing the inequality and
injustice issues.
5.2 Lack of gender-sensitive policies prioritizing
Elborgh-Woytek et al. (2013) stress the economic advantages of gender equality within the workplace,
calling for policies geared towards empowering women economically. Moreover, in the political arena, the
absence of gender-sensitive laws and regulations reproduce systemic gender inequalities which lead to
limited possibilities for women to participate in politics and take leadership roles. If the gaps are not
addressed, then the existing barriers such as discriminatory laws, cultural norms, and institutional biases
still limit women access to political office and hinder their influence in the decision-making process
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(Dahlerup, 2006). Gender-responsive policies, which focus on women's unique needs and preferences, are
vital for the promotion of political participation and leadership of women (Molyneux & Razavi, 2002). Among
the measures, these policies may consist of gender quotas, affirmative action programs, and gender
mainstreaming initiatives as well as promotion of women's representation in elected bodies and decision-
making forums (Ballington & Karam, 2005). In addition, the creation of a political culture that promotes
gender equality and diversity is fundamental in effecting systemic change and overcoming embedded
gender stereotypes (Tripp, 2015). Through the incorporation of gender perspectives into the policy
formulation process and by guaranteeing the active participation of women in political discussions, the
governments can be on the way to building more inclusive and fair governance systems. By means of
cooperative actions among policymakers, civil society organizations and international partners societies
can solve the institutional roadblocks that cause gender imbalances in political representation and decision-
making thus opening the way to more democratic and gender-responsive governance systems.
5.3 Perpetuation of gender-based power imbalances
Maintaining power disparities between the male and female among the gendered political hierarchy will
forever favor the cultural constructions that are still an issue to women even in politics. Cuberes and
Teignier (2016) teach us that such thing as the difference in the workforce of men and women also has
social consequences because of the fact that the difference in the labor market is a self- standing economic
sphere. A prominent political case demonstrates bad gender gaps among politics resulting in misallocation
of resources, opportunities, powers which in turn reducing women's participation in policymaking. Resolving
the gender issue in relation to power imbalance will require a fundamental structural change whose
essence will be to challenge the patriarchal features and strengthen the social status on the other hand.
This particular area of reform should concentrate on the procedures that entail the sharing of power and
frustration of women when they do not have the opportunity to serve in the political institutions and the
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political leadership as well. Of which aim is the woman's empowerment to an advanced level that is
characterized by her active participation in both political discussions and making of important decision will
succeed in the long run as a means of strengthening our country's democratic values. And also where the
women would like to showcase their responses and talents in the complicated social, economic and
political problems. The society can successfully set stage which is based on gender equality and inclusivity
and, thus, will be positioned to go beyond the power divide and reach the level of fairer and effective
governance systems which consider and serve the needs of all the citizens. Being a part of the process that
addresses the gender-based imbalances of power, gender quotas, and affirmative action policies are to be
used as the tools that should be applied for women's capacity building in politics and developing of their
leadership skills (Tripp, 2015). Moreover, progressing gender-responsive institutional reforms and legal
structures will be of utmost importance as they will ensure a favorable climate for women and so they will
not be excluded from participating in decision-making just because of their contributions. Through the
enlightened and the foreseeable actions at the level of the legislature, the institutions, and the civilians,
societies can contribute to the governance which is just and full of inclusivity within which the diverse and
divergent opinions of all citizens are taken into consideration.
6.0 Implications for economic growth and development
6.1 Untapped potential and underutilized talents
The wasting of women's potentials is a substantial underestimation of the deep implications for economic
growth and development. Alesina, Giuliano, and Nunn (2013) are going deeper into the historical source of
gender roles to the extent that the human capital represented by women should be utilized to the greatest
extent. Even though tremendous effort has been made to girls’ economic empowerment, the fact remains
that there are still obstacles that limit women’s full participation in the workforce and the development of
their potential to contribute to economic development. These barriers consist of a number of factors
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including cultural standers, discriminatory practices, and less chances to the resources and opportunities (
Duflo, 2012). The finding of the female specific talent and the adherence to the gender equality in economic
activities has a huge potential to bring about the rise in productivity, innovation, and competitiveness and so
economic growth. Research indicates that when women take part in the workforce; it leads to expansion of
labor size and at the same time diversification of viewpoints and skills which is therefore an essential
component of a company's success in a competitive global market. By providing women with economic
empowerment, the resulting chain effect at the family welfare level is helped by the fact that women usually
allocate a larger share of their income to the family's investments in education, health and nutrition which
finally helps to long-term poverty eradication and human development. Though women's economic
participation is not only a goal of gender equality but, on the contrary, should be considered as a way to
sustainable economic growth and development. A gender inclusive policy and removing barriers for
women’s development, the society may see that gender stability is one of the factors that much open a
door to the equality among genders, and thus creates foundation for a more sustainable, equitable and
prosperous economies.
6.2 Reduced household incomes and spending
The gender inequality in economic sphere does not just happen to keep the injustice in peace but also
limits the economic progress and development. In his article, Buvinic and Furst-Nichols (2016) write on
strategies that can bring women's economic empowerment through an analysis of how women's economic
participation cause improvement in household welfare. When women are empowered, they get the ability to
steer the same type of resources that are crucial for well-being, better health, improved education and
proper nutrition of their family members. The underlying social structure turns in focus as the empowerment
of the household turns redounded as improved household welfare uplifts the whole of society which in turn
is stabilized. Besides that, eliminating the hurdles which women face to be economically active and
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advancing women's equality in the labor market are a must if we want to raise household incomes and
intensify fair and sustainable economic growth (World Bank, 2019). Addressing systemic barriers and
forging entry routes for women in the economic society will enable countries to tap in the dormant potential
of the female population as driving forces for sustainable growth and development. The fact that fostering
an atmosphere in which women are not only respected and encouraged economically, but also women’s
economic agency is an engine for gender equality also can be a great driver for innovation, productivity,
and competitiveness of the global economy (UN Women, 2020). Thus, financing the socio-economic
development of women is a dual imperative as it is a basic human right as well as serve as a key strategy
to attaining the sustainable development agenda. By exerting strong collective measures all the way from
promoting women's economic participation and decision-making, societies can realize the change and
transition necessary for women to evolve as the main drivers of progress while youths are empowered, and
the world is more equal and resilient.
6.3 Impediments to innovation and competitiveness
Gender barriers to women's economic participation not only ensure inequality to persist but also give the
chance for innovation and competitiveness to be lost in the global economy. Discrimination on the basis of
gender while accessing education, training, and employment not only takes out the best talent from
innovation and entrepreneurship but it also prevails into the lack of such talent pool. According to Buvinic
and Furst-Nichols (2016) it is essential to create an environment for women which is supportive and helps
them grow in innovation and entrepreneurship. These women-led small enterprises are the megaphones of
the economic stability and the market efficiency. Through the provision of target specific education for
women, envisioned financial support services for women business and the adoption of the policy that will
make possible the development of women these nations can tap the full potential of women as engines of
innovation and competitiveness. Furthermore, women`s engagement in the economy at all levels, both as
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entrepreneurs or employees, strengthens the competitiveness of businesses and ensures that the economy
benefits from diversity of views and ideas, thus speeding up innovation and keeping the economic growth
long term (World Bank, 2019). Besides that, the establishment of gender-sensitive innovation ecosystems
has socioeconomic implications as well as aiming at inequity in the social system and at the same time it
provides equal opportunities for everybody. Hence, stimulating women’s inclusiveness in the economy and
the creation of a gender equitable innovation ecosystem is an imperative formula through which the
competitiveness and creation of a sustainable global economy can be achieved. By the joint actions of
removal of barriers and the creation of thriving ecosystems countries can use women's creative abilities,
talent and entrepreneurial drive to speed up innovation, generate economic growth and strengthen the
resilience and inclusiveness of their societies of the future.
7.0 Role of government and civil society
7.1 Promoting gender equality through legislation
Legal instruments of supporting the equality between genders are a key step which is necessary to
eradicate the economical disparity and lower status of the female gender. The perception and
implementation of legal regulations in Europe have been highlighted as the most important factors that
empower the struggle against women's oppression and discrimination, based on the findings of Klassen
and Minasyan (2017). The enactment of a law could be among the most effective measures in doing away
with the prevailing barriers to education, employment and small business entrepreneurship among other
critical gender issues that shape the field of play between men and women. Governments can create such
a permissive environment by providing and enforcing gender-responsive legislations and policies which will
allow women to be the key contributors to the realization of the sustainable development by all. Legislation
is the crucial part of breaking down blocks that make women inactive in the different presentations of
community life. The discrimination regulations and the equal pay laws that are enforceable like the gender
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wage gap help in equalizing the disparity by ensuring that the women in the workforce get fair pay the way
their male counterparts (World Bank, 2019). Similarly legislation that permits women to be the co-owners of
property and the sole heirs of inheritance can also increase their earnings through savings and investment
in the future of their family (UN Women, 2020). Democratic measures which law-making depends on, are
really the essential tools in the fight against the sexual norms or stereotypes which trigger gender-based
discrimination. The law, in this case, punishes those who commit all the gender-related violence and
harassments in work environments thus providing women a safer opportunity to achieve their career goals
without fear of threat or assault (EFNA, 2021). Now, with these policies implemented, the state would be
sending a message loud and clear that any acts of violence and discrimination towards women are strictly
forbidden and will be punished by law. Furthermore, this cultural transformation bringing gender equality
into the mainstream should occur. These parliamentary mechanisms are the irrevocable instruments of the
gender equality promotion and present among all tools to achieve a social system where the well-being of
each social and economic status is the same.
7.2 Encouraging women's participation in decision-making
Ensuring the involvement of women in all levels of decision making is a bottom line when you want to
achieve gender equality and inclusive governance. Stotsky (2006) underlines the essence of women’s
issues in the sphere of macroeconomics and shows that women’s participation in decision-making is not
often frequent and is of primary importance. Women, as full-blown participants in political,economic and
social sectors, through their involvement in organizations and the government, the latter gets to benefit
from the different perspectives and therefore lead to representative and effective outcomes. Involvement of
women in decision-making to a larger extent is not only a social matter but it is also disadvantageous to the
society. The academic environment reveals that, as women are represented in leadership positions, the
performance and governance outcomes of the organization rise (World Economic Forum, 2019). Women
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being part of the decision-making process plays the role of representing fresh, unique views and ideas that
were not previously considered. With an abundance of perspectives in the debates, all the issues will be
equally addressed and policy making fair enough. Similarly, they meet the needs of all of the society and
community residents. Empowering women to be active participants in a democratic system strengthens
democracy because the system becomes more representative of its people since the people in the political
leadership are now, more diverse. The active participation of the women in drafting the policies and
legislations not only make a decision of women more significant but also it ameliorate the community’s civic
participation and trust towards the government (United Nations, 2019). By enlarging social cohesion and
stability, which is a background for sustainable development and expansion of inclusivity, this, in turn, is
assuring sustainability.
7.3 Raising awareness and challenging societal
Highlighting issues, combating conventions and traditions, and evading the stereotypes people have is a
key and main function in elimination of underlying inequalities and effecting the cultural changes.
Tzannatos (1999) centers the majority of the talk on public conferencing which are directly aimed at equal
opportunities in the labor market and demonstrates how civil disobedience gets mobilized against
prejudiced actions. The United Nations Development Programme (2020) points out that gender inequality
and environmental degradation are closely tied together and that hence the two problems must be dealt
with collectively. It is as a result of such a close relationship that the stress on the cooperation and on the
achievement of the sustainable development agenda becomes indispensable. Nations can be collectively
be able to use policies and programs to create gender equity with the norms of gender equality being
deeply rooted by the engagement in dialogue, education, and advocacy. In order to eradicate the outdated
stereotypes and to create the society where people will realize how sex inequality takes place in all aspects
of human life, it is necessary to run awareness-based activities. Meanwhile, the awareness-based
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campaigns, workshops and public discussions can be used as the tools for men and women's
understanding how the myths and preconceptions about the gender role and ability matters are built and
maintained. Education in this concern is what helps an individual community members to examine their
own attitude and behaviors towards that woman can be part of all the aspects of society as individual
members do (United Nations Women, 2021). In addition, media forms public opinions owing to its own
personal projects and artistic creations. Another proof that female and male characters are equally diverse
and progressive is the distorted mirror of reality we find in the books. This way, they will find out that they
can bring in their knowledge, resources and networks in the efforts of coming up with a robust strategy that
is powerful enough to solve the fundamental issue of sex inequality (World Bank, 2021). It makes sure that
interventions are context-specific and that among the communities various considerations about them are
in focus. Therefore, the process leads to social engagement and makes the output long-lasting and
inclusive.
8.0 Conclusion
Given the multi-angle problems of gender differences addressed above, several recommendations to
increase gender equality and accelerate a female inclusive economy emerge. First of all, governments
should make sure to take priority on the issue of legislating and enforcing gender sensitive laws in order to
combat discrimination and enable synthesis of women rights which is in different sectors. Implementation of
gender sensitization and equal opportunity policies with regard to education, employment and economic
issues will be done and also, policies to fight against gender-based exploitation and harassment at the work
place will be put in place. The government should always promote the midst of women in these spheres of
political, economic and social decertification, decisions making process namely. This may be done by
purposefully providing more women with the opportunity to take up leadership positions and seats in
decision-making bodies and by providing women with the means to become politically engaged and
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cultivate leadership abilities themselves. Moreover, civil society groups are one of the major actors who are
advocating for gender equality and those who are standing up to the traditional values and stereotypes in
the society. The civil society on the other hand can support the process of cultural change by creating
awareness, pushing for dialogue and mobilizing the grassroots movements, as these can push for more
profound social acceptance of gender diversity. The organisations of civil society can also provide
necessary support and tools to women among them, education and training programs, finance and
business development support and networking resources.we should strengthen the collaborative work
among governments, non-governmental organizations, private sector and various stakeholders by which
equality for women and sustainable living are their main objectives. Beyond the human rights issues or any
other gender issue, pushing for the equality is the essential elements for promoting an equitable growth as
well as sustainable development. A gender inclusive environment for women's participation in
entrepreneurship and innovation problems can be created only by formulating live policies and programmes
to remove the gender based systemic inequalities and encourage women's empowerment. The
recommendations which have been outlined in the above paragraphs gives us an insight into the course of
action; the emphasis should be given to the legislative reforms, inclusion government and social
mobilization to advance the gender agendas.
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