Gender Equality Benefits Everyone

As we mark another International Women’s Day, it’s important to acknowledge both the progress made and the challenges that remain for women worldwide. Gender equality is not just about fairness, it is a fundamental driver of economic growth, cultural enrichment, and social development. Yet, access to opportunities, safety, and leadership still varies significantly depending on geography, race, ethnicity, and cultural background.

Suffragette's stand in street, London (Smithsonian Magazine)

The Reality for Women Today and Where We Are Currently

Women’s experiences differ vastly across the world due to cultural norms, religious expectations, economic structures, and legal protections. While some women have broken through barriers in politics, business, and academia, others still face significant restrictions.

• Education – The global gender gap in education is narrowing, but 129 million girls remain out of school worldwide, largely due to cultural and economic barriers (UNESCO, 2023).

• Employment & Economy – Women make up nearly 40% of the global workforce yet hold only 25% of leadership roles (World Economic Forum, 2023).

• Political Representation – While female representation in politics is growing, only 26.5% of parliamentary seatsworldwide are held by women (UN Women, 2023).

• Gender-based Violence – 1 in 3 women worldwide experience violence, highlighting the urgent need for systemic and cultural change (WHO, 2023).

Women’s Freedom to Express Themselves

True equality includes the right for all women to express themselves freely, whether that’s through choice of headdress, hairstyle, identity, or family planning. Women’s autonomy over their bodies, personal expression, and reproductive rights are central to their empowerment. Trans women are women too, and their rights must be upheld within this fight for gender equality.

The World Bank has reported that 91 countries still have at least one law restricting women’s autonomy over family planning, employment, or dress codes (World Bank, 2023). A thriving society depends on protecting women's freedoms across all cultures, ensuring they have the right to make choices that align with their identity, faith, and values.

Why Gender Equality is Critical for Progress

Equal rights and opportunities for women do not just benefit women, they strengthen economies, enhance cultural exchange, and create more productive workplaces. Yes, everyone benefits from gender equality!

• Economic Growth – Gender parity in the workforce could boost global GDP by $28 trillion by 2025 (McKinsey Global Institute, 2023).

• Better Business Performance – Companies with diverse leadership are 25% more likely to outperform their competitors (McKinsey, 2023).

• Social Stability & Development – When women actively participate in leadership, communities become more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive.

How Do We Tackle These Issues?

Addressing gender inequality requires a multi-faceted approach that spans policy changes, cultural shifts, and global cooperation. It means we have to care about our fellow sisters in all countries, as well as collaborate and seek support from the men and boys in our lives. How can we all support this? 

Strengthening Legal and Policy Frameworks

• Enforce gender-equal laws ensuring workplace protections, pay equity, and safety from violence.

• Ratify international agreements like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Ensuring Access to Education & Healthcare

• Invest in education for girls and women in developing regions.

• Protect reproductive rights, ensuring access to contraception, maternal healthcare, and family planning services.

Economic Empowerment & Workplace Equality

• Close the wage gap and introduce transparent hiring and promotion policies.

• Support women-owned businesses through funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurial networks.

Political Representation & Leadership Development

• Encourage and support women in politics through leadership training and sponsorship.

• Implement gender quotas in leadership positions to ensure diverse decision-making.

Cultural Intelligence & Inclusive Leadership

• Challenge gender biases in different cultural contexts, adapting solutions to specific societies.

• Educate leaders on the importance of cultural intelligence in creating inclusive environments.

• Recognise and uplift the leadership styles of women across different cultures, valuing diverse perspectives.

How Can We Empower Women Beyond Our Own Borders?

For those wondering how to support women's empowerment globally, even in countries they don’t live in, here are some impactful actions:

• Support International Organisations – Donate to or volunteer with NGOs working on women's rights (e.g., UN Women , Malala Fund, Women for Women International, Plan International onal).

• Advocate for Change – Push for policies that support gender equality, even in your own country, as global policies influence international standards.

• Engage in Ethical Consumerism – Support businesses that commit to fair labour practices, hire women, and promote gender equity.

• Use Digital Activism – Share information, elevate women's voices globally, and participate in online movements advocating for women's rights.

The fight for women's equality is far from over, but the progress we make benefits everyone. Societies that embrace gender inclusivity, cultural intelligence, and diverse leadership are stronger, more innovative, and more sustainable. Let’s continue to advocate for a world where all women- regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or gender identity- have the freedom to thrive.