The Impact of Global Events on Women
Geopolitical conflict, financial volatility, spending cuts, climate change, and the lingering effect of the pandemic are hindering progress on gender equality and empowerment of women. Over the past year, inflation has impacted women more than men (59% vs. 53%) according to TEAM LEWIS Foundation’s report. Over four years after the emergence of COVID-19, the pandemic continues to affect both genders, yet many remain unaware of its impact on women. The pandemic alone resulted in $800 billion of lost income for women globally, according to the US Global Leadership Coalition. This economic disparity is projected to widen. By 2030, for every 100 men in poverty, there will be 121 women. Despite these challenges, people are willing to help, with many advocating for policy changes and raising awareness about these issues.
Women in Leadership
Even with decades of advocacy for gender equality, the scarcity of women in leadership roles remains a pressing issue for both the business world and society. However, individuals have become more open to seeing women in leadership roles within national governments. According to the TEAM LEWIS Foundation’s report, 70% believe that countries led by women are often perceived as better managed. This is just one reason why more investment should be made in opportunities for women to take positions of leadership.
The UAE: A Beacon of Empowerment for Women
The UAE has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and empowering women across various sectors. The UAE government has implemented a range of policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s roles in society, government, and the workforce, making the UAE a leading example for other countries to follow. These initiatives include enacting progressive laws, increasing female representation in government, supporting women in the workforce, and launching the Gender Balance Council.
Building on this, the UAE has become the first country to make it mandatory for corporations and government agencies to include women on their Boards of Directors. Over 25% of cabinet-level ministers in the country are women.
The UAE also places a strong emphasis on educating women and supporting their progress in the workforce. The literacy rate of women in the UAE is 95.8%, significantly higher than the global average of approximately 83% for adult women. Around two-thirds of public sector jobs in the UAE are filled by women, with 30% in leadership and 15% in technical and academic roles.
According to the 2023 Women, Peace and Security Index, the UAE is ranked 1st in MENA and 22nd globally on women’s financial inclusion, political participation, and justice. The UAE tops the MENA region in women’s financial inclusion, women’s share of parliament seats, and absence of legal discrimination against women.
Global Perspective
More than a third of businesses around the world still have no women in senior management positions, according to the Grant Thornton International Business Report. This highlights the need for continued efforts and investment to ensure women are not only present but thriving in leadership roles across all sectors.
By addressing the challenges women face and supporting their growth, we can create a future where gender equality is the norm. Organisations, governments, men and women in leading positions all have roles in empowering women. From advocating for equal pay to raising awareness of the challenges women face, actions can be taken to bring us closer to a world of equality.
