Gender parity has become a strategic necessity for economies and organizations aiming to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2025, nearly 100 economies have made progress in narrowing gender gaps, particularly in political and economic inclusion. The global gender gap has closed to 68.8%, the most significant annual improvement since the pandemic. However, achieving full parity is still over a century away at the current pace.
Closing gender gaps benefits more than just fairness; it fosters competitiveness, innovation, resilience, and adaptability in both economies and organizations. Leaders from various sectors emphasize that gender parity is crucial for economic growth and resilience. For example, Bonnie Y. Chan of Hong Kong Exchanges highlights how diversity in boardrooms enhances decision-making and market sustainability. Similarly, Michael Ensser of Egon Zehnder notes that inclusive teams are better at navigating disruptions and driving innovation.
Efforts in regions like Bahrain demonstrate how investing in female education and workforce participation can lead to significant economic advantages. Noor bint Ali Al Khulaif, Bahrain’s Minister of Sustainable Development, explains that women now represent half of STEM enrollments in the country, contributing to its transition to a knowledge-based economy.
Businesses also benefit from gender diversity. McKinsey research shows that companies with more women in leadership roles achieve higher returns on equity and profitability. Agility’s Henadi Al Saleh underscores that investing in women unlocks growth and resilience, while Sara Pantuliano of ODI Global stresses the importance of addressing barriers like unpaid care work to fully harness women’s potential.
In conclusion, gender parity is not just a moral goal but a driver of economic prosperity and innovation.
— new from The World Economic Forum