Development and discrimination: Winning the battle

If the issue of the economic impact of preventing women from participating actively in the economy is starting to attract attention in OECD countries, it has been sorely neglected in poorer parts of the world, where discrimination and repression often have deep cultural and religious roots. Yet, the success with which developing countries integrate female workers into the labor force will be a key factor in building their competitiveness in the global economy. The first step is to understand the causes. Take the breakdown of discrimination by region and levels of development. Investing in institutions and training to improve enforcement will be vital if other initiatives in promoting gender equality are to work. Engaging men in reform, providing incentives and perhaps even financial compensation are important. Investing in high quality data is a good starting point. Encouraging greater openness can also help tackle the prejudice and distrust that underpin persistent discrimination.