A groundbreaking new report by the World Bank Group reveals a shocking reality: the global gender gap for women in the workplace is far wider than previously thought. When factors like safety from violence and access to childcare are considered, women enjoy just 64% of the legal rights afforded to men, significantly lower than the previously estimated 77%. This vast disparity extends beyond legislation, creating a concerning “implementation gap” where enacted laws lack the necessary support systems for true effectiveness.
The report, titled “Women, Business, and the Law 2024,” sheds light on the significant obstacles women face in entering the workforce and contributing to economic prosperity. It expands its analysis by incorporating crucial indicators like safety from violence and childcare access, revealing a deeper understanding of the challenges women encounter. This wider perspective paints a stark picture – the average woman globally receives only 64% of the legal protections compared to men, highlighting the need for urgent action.
Furthermore, the report exposes a concerning disparity between legal reforms and actual outcomes for women. While 190 economies have implemented laws promoting gender equality, the average country has established less than 40% of the necessary systems for full implementation. This “implementation gap” is exemplified by the case of Togo, a Sub-Saharan standout with laws granting women 77% of the rights available to men. Despite its progress, Togo has only established 27% of the systems needed for complete implementation, reflecting a common trend across the region.
Beyond legal frameworks, the report identifies additional areas demanding attention. While governments actively addressed reforms in pay, parental rights, and workplace protections in 2023, access to childcare and women’s safety received considerably less focus. The global average score for women’s safety is a mere 36, indicating a critical lack of legal protection against domestic violence, sexual harassment, child marriage, and femicide. This reality often restricts women’s mobility and participation in public life, further hindering their economic opportunities.
Similarly, inadequate childcare options create additional barriers. Women dedicate an average of 2.4 more hours daily to unpaid care work compared to men, primarily childcare. Expanding access to quality childcare has been shown to significantly increase women’s labor force participation, yet only 78 economies offer any financial or tax support for parents with young children. Additionally, just 62 economies have established quality standards for childcare services, leaving many women apprehensive about entrusting their children while pursuing careers.
The report also highlights challenges in areas like entrepreneurship and retirement. Only 20% of economies mandate gender-sensitive criteria in public procurement, limiting women’s access to a significant $10 trillion annual economic opportunity. Furthermore, the persistent gender pay gap remains, with women globally earning just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. This disparity extends to retirement, with 62 economies maintaining unequal retirement ages for men and women. This, coupled with lower pay and career breaks for childcare, results in smaller pensions and greater financial insecurity for women in their later years.
In conclusion, the World Bank Group report presents a compelling case for urgent action towards achieving gender equality in the workplace. By acknowledging the vastness of the gender gap, the report calls for a renewed commitment to legislative reforms and the creation of comprehensive support systems. Only through dedicated efforts can we bridge the implementation gap and unlock the full potential of women in the global economy.