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Gender and Ethnic Wage Gaps in Ecuador

Gender and Ethnic Wage GapsGender inequality in the labor market manifests itself in many ways, not only regarding salary differences but also often involves women working longer hours in more informal sectors and engaging in higher levels of unpaid work. Despite not being one of the most underperforming Latin American states addressing the gender pay gap, Ecuador was ranked 89th out of 186 countries for gender inequality by the Human Development Index in 2012. This highlights that there is still work to be done to improve opportunities and benefits afforded to women in the workplace.

The Gender Wage Gap

In Ecuador, female workers earn between 13-26% less than men, with women in rural parts of the country estimated to work around 23 hours longer a week than their male counterparts. Women are also more commonly involved in “vulnerable” employment, working without formal arrangements or protections. They are, therefore, reliant on the economy doing well to stay in their job and are more likely to end up in poverty. Since the ’90s, the proportion of women employed in such employment in Ecuador has increased to 61.1%, compared to 43.5% of men, higher than the Latin American average.

Additionally, there is an invisible side to this gender wage disparity. According to data from the Household Satellite Account, “in 2014, unpaid work performed by women in Ecuador represented 15% of GDP.” Thus, the gender wage gap in Ecuador is much more than just differences in earnings; it is the quality of the work and conditions available to women. These gendered differences within the labor market intersect with racial and ethnic discrimination, making life especially difficult for minority women.

Ethnic Wage Gap

Ecuador’s population is diverse, with 1.1 million indigenous citizens from 14 nationalities. Throughout its history, similar to other countries with large Indigenous populations, these groups have suffered marginalization and discrimination. This has significantly impacted the relative prosperity and quality of life of indigenous people. In Ecuador, ethnic wage gaps are considerably higher than gender ones, with Indigenous citizens receiving only 33% of nonindigenous workers’ salaries.

Regarding opportunities, Indigenous people are two to three times less likely to be in stable, specialized careers in countries like Ecuador, where large Indigenous communities live in urban areas. When the gender pay gap intersects with these profound ethnic ones, this inequality becomes even more pronounced, especially for Indigenous women. These groups not only suffer from gender wage gaps but are put at an even more significant disadvantage in comparison to their nonindigenous female counterparts due to racial inequalities. Also, many Indigenous women live in rural areas of Ecuador, meaning they are also affected by the differences in rural and urban working opportunities and conditions.

Addressing Gender and Ethnic Wage Gaps in Ecuador

The Ecuadorian Constitution has attempted to address gender equality, committing itself to eliminating discrimination against women and creating a National Council of Women (CONAMU) focusing on policy directly related to women’s issues. Legislation such as the Law for Equal Pay between Women and Men has obliged employees to pay equal wages to male and female workers in the same jobs. Similarly, the Law to Promote the Violet Economy has expanded on this to promote female participation in sectors where they are often underrepresented.

The government passed an additional gender parity law in 2020, setting quotas to encourage increased female participation in election candidate lists and address the gender imbalance within the government. In 2021, this quota was set at 15% and increased to 30% in 2023. The government hopes that gender parity for electoral candidates will be reached by 2025. These diversity requirements have shown promising progress thus far, with women making up 46.9% of the candidates in the February 2024 subnational elections.

The United Nations (U.N.) has also made significant progress in expanding education provision for women and girls and encouraging female participation in elections. U.N. Women have worked alongside the United Nations Office For Project Services (UNOPS) to develop initiatives to help “national and local administrations incorporate a gender perspective” in the public sector.

This will ensure that the specific needs of women and girls are being addressed across different government sectors to bring Ecuador closer to meeting the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. The organization has also promoted monetizing unpaid care responsibilities to recognize the additional labor women carry. If this proposal were to come to fruition, it would have significant benefits for Ecuadorian women, who in 2012 carried out around 40 hours of unpaid domestic work a week on top of other work commitments.

Final Remark on Wage Gaps in Ecuador

Despite Ecuador making great strides in improving the gender wage gap, not much is being done to tackle the profound ethnic wage gap that is disadvantageous and limiting ethnic minorities (especially Indigenous people). To ensure that all women earn a fair wage for their work and are valued as much as their male counterparts, addressing this ethnic pay gap alongside gender is crucial. Otherwise, indigenous women and those from other ethnic minorities will be left behind.

– Ciara Howard

Ciara is based in Brighton, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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PDF-Africa Addresses Gender Inequality and Youth Unemployment

PDF-AfricaAccording to the United Nations’ (U.N.) latest global gender gap index, Nigeria ranks 130 out of 162 countries in the gender inequality index. Many women, particularly those in rural areas, are being denied access to education and employment, unlike their male counterparts. Additionally, youth unemployment remains high in Nigeria, with more than 50% of young people either unemployed or underemployed, contributing significantly to poverty. Furthermore, PWDs face systemic barriers to education, employment and health care, further deepening impoverishment across communities.

Preston Development Foundation

Preston Development Foundation (PDF-Africa) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives and well-being of individuals, especially women, young adults and PWDs, through sustainable and strategic initiatives. With a mission rooted in sustainable and impactful societal change, the organization focuses on four strategic pillars: Education, Health, Gender Equality and Financial Inclusion. These issues require a multi-faceted strategic methodology. Thus, PDF-Africa adopts a holistic, community-centered approach to tackling challenges in education, health, gender equality and financial inclusion. Its methodology is anchored in collaboration, sustainability and empowerment, focusing on community-driven solutions that encourage individuals and stakeholders to take an active role in community development.

The significance of PDF-Africa works lies in the widespread impact of these changes. Limited access to education, inadequate health, gender discrimination and financial exclusion continue to hinder the progress of vulnerable groups across Nigeria and Africa as a whole. By developing tailored interventions in these areas, PDF-Africa seeks to bridge these gaps, create equitable opportunities and improve overall quality of life. Through a holistic approach, the organization empowers individuals through capacity building and skill acquisition. PDF-Africa aims to help them break free from cycles of poverty and marginalization, fostering long-term development and resilience.

A Combination of Approaches

PDF-Africa implements targeted programs such as training, health education programs and digital literacy programs to address gaps and increase employment opportunities and career choice pathways for adolescents. In addition, the organization conducts public awareness campaigns and outreaches to raise awareness and increase knowledge gain, ensuring that individuals and the community are well-informed to act and make informed decisions.

By utilizing a combination of approaches, PDF-Africa not only addresses the issues in society but also empowers individuals and communities to thrive, act and make informed decisions for themselves. This approach enables PDF-Africa to drive sustainable change within the communities it serves.

Improving Lives

Through targeted interventions in health, education and empowerment, PDF-Africa has made significant strides in improving the lives and well-being of women. These initiatives include enhancing functional literacy, providing young adolescent girls with menstrual hygiene products and awareness and offering training to boost digital literacy in today’s evolving world. As a result, PDF-Africa is expanding opportunities and increasing employability rates among its beneficiaries.

In recent years, PDF-Africa has made strides in expanding access to STEM education for women and girls of color. It has reached more than 180 participants through initiatives like the Yan Matan Arewa Hackathon Initiative and Search Engine Training. Through partnerships with individuals, public schools and tech companies, PDF-Africa has provided participants with resources, materials, computers and financial support to enhance their learning experience and open pathways in STEM fields.

Additionally, PDF-Africa has made a significant impact on the lives and health of girls and women in vulnerable communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Between 2018 and 2024, PDF-Africa reached more than 4,000 young women and girls across 10 secondary schools and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Abuja, providing essential support and resources. In 2023, the nonprofit organization extended its efforts beyond distributing menstrual hygiene products to include educational campaigns in schools lacking menstrual health knowledge.

Conclusion

PDF-Africa’s comprehensive, community-centered approach is making strides in reducing gender inequality, improving youth employment prospects and fostering inclusion for marginalized groups in Nigeria. Through targeted interventions in education, health, gender equality and financial inclusion, PDF-Africa empowers individuals and communities to break cycles of poverty and marginalization. By equipping women, young adults and PWDs with the skills and resources they need to thrive, the initiative is not only enhancing lives but also driving long-term, sustainable development across Nigeria.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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The Gender Wage Gap in Sri Lanka: Bridging the Divide

Wage Gap in Sri LankaSri Lanka, renowned for its achievements in education and health care, still faces significant gender inequality, particularly in wages. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report, “Making Our Future: New Directions for Human Development in Asia and the Pacific,” social disparity remains prevalent, with a persistent gender wage gap limiting economic opportunities and exacerbating poverty in Sri Lanka. Closing this gap is crucial not only for gender equity but also for fostering economic growth and reducing poverty.

Current Status of the Gender Wage Gap in Sri Lanka

The gender wage gap in Sri Lanka remains significant. A recent International Labour Organization (ILO) report shows that women earn, on average, 30-36% less than their male counterparts. This gap is even wider in the informal sector, where many women are employed. They are often concentrated in low-wage sectors like agriculture, textiles and services. In contrast, high-paying sectors such as IT, engineering and finance remain male-dominated, widening the income divide.

While Sri Lanka performs well on global gender indices, particularly in education, the wage disparity highlights a deeper issue: economic progress has not translated into pay equity. Women still face wage discrimination and are often steered into lower-paying jobs, pointing to systemic barriers that need addressing.

Key Factors Contributing to the Gender Wage Gap

Occupational segregation remains a key issue. Despite women’s critical economic contributions, they are concentrated in lower-wage industries. Sectors like agriculture and textiles, where women predominate, tend to be undervalued. Cultural norms further compound the issue, with societal expectations often prioritizing women’s roles as caregivers, pushing them toward part-time or informal work. This “double burden” limits their full-time employment and career progression opportunities, constraining their earning potential.

Education and skills gaps also play a role. Although Sri Lanka has made strides in female education, women remain underrepresented in high-paying fields like science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Without targeted initiatives to encourage women’s participation in these fields, wage disparities will likely persist. Workplace discrimination and unconscious bias further entrench wage inequality. Women face obstacles in promotions, salary negotiations and leadership roles. Although legal frameworks exist to promote gender equality, weak enforcement leaves many women vulnerable to wage discrimination.

The Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has widened Sri Lanka’s gender wage gap. The economic downturn disproportionately affected Women, particularly those in low-paying, informal jobs. Sectors such as hospitality, textiles and domestic services—where women are heavily represented—suffered severe losses during lockdowns.

The burden of unpaid caregiving also increased during the pandemic, with many women leaving the workforce to care for children or elderly relatives. This prolonged absence from the labor market has long-term repercussions on their earning potential, threatening to reverse years of progress toward wage equality.

Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Sri Lanka

To close the gender wage gap in Sri Lanka, a comprehensive approach involving government intervention and support from nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) is essential. Enforcing existing equal pay laws and conducting regular wage audits are necessary first steps. According to U.N. Women, strengthening labor laws to ensure equal pay for equal work across all sectors is crucial for narrowing the gap.

NGOs play a pivotal role in advocating for women’s economic empowerment. For example, the Women’s Development Federation (WDF) in Sri Lanka has been actively working to empower women through skills training, entrepreneurship programs and advocacy for fair wages. Its initiatives have enabled thousands of women to gain financial independence by entering nontraditional sectors or starting small businesses. This has helped to bridge the wage gap in local communities.

Another notable organization, CARE International, has launched initiatives like the Made by Women movement, which focuses on improving working conditions and wages for women in the textile industry. Its advocacy has led to partnerships with local businesses to ensure better pay and opportunities for women workers, serving as a model for other industries.

The government can also expand women’s access to high-paying fields through targeted education and vocational training programs. According to recommendations from the UNDP, providing scholarships and incentives for women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like STEM can help bridge the skills gap and diversify the workforce.

Addressing the caregiving burden through policies like affordable childcare and family-friendly work environments would enable more women to participate fully in the workforce. Such measures would encourage women to return to work after caregiving responsibilities, reducing career interruptions and ensuring better career progression.

A Path Forward: Economic Growth and Gender Equality

Addressing the gender wage gap is not just an issue of fairness—it’s crucial for Sri Lanka’s economic growth. Studies indicate that closing the wage gap could significantly boost the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) by increasing women’s labor force participation and productivity. Reducing gender wage inequality could lift many families from poverty, contributing to national economic resilience.

While Sri Lanka has progressed in some areas of gender equality, the wage gap remains a substantial barrier to true economic equity. A coordinated effort from the government, private sector and civil society is necessary to dismantle the barriers that keep women in low-wage roles and ensure equal opportunities.

– Nandini Bhatia

Nandini is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Seychelles: Progress and Pathways Forward

Women's Rights in SeychellesSeychelles ranks highly on global gender equality scales, but efforts to protect and advance women’s rights remain vital. This island nation continues to tackle legal, social and economic challenges to create an inclusive society for women with a focus on positive outcomes and progressive changes.

Legal Frameworks and Policy Solutions

Seychelles is a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on Gender and Development. These agreements shape national policies guiding efforts to reduce discrimination in education, health care and access to legal rights.

The policy provides a roadmap for engaging both men and women in the national workforce. For example, Seychelles has recently started capacity-building workshops to encourage more women to enter traditionally male-dominated fields like agriculture, where women account for only 6% of the workforce.

In early 2023, a capacity-building workshop held in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Family Affairs identified key areas of support, such as access to time-saving technologies, farming inputs and agricultural land. These efforts have already led to increased participation of women in agriculture, addressing the previous gender gap. The government aims to reach hundreds of women through these initiatives by 2025.

Tackling Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a concern in Seychelles despite legal protections. Surveys reveal that 41% of Seychellois believe a woman reporting GBV might face criticism or harassment. Though 91% of Seychellois disapprove of physical discipline against women, societal attitudes make it difficult for many victims to come forward. However, solutions are emerging. Police reform initiatives have been implemented, focusing on training officers to respond better to GBV cases. Support groups and shelters have also been established to help victims feel safer when reporting abuse.

Economic Empowerment

While Seychelles has made strides in education—women now outnumber men in tertiary enrollment—economic empowerment remains a challenge. Women are still underrepresented in high-income sectors, particularly in agriculture, business leadership and technology. To address this, the government has introduced training programs to help women access higher-paying jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities. Capacity-building efforts, supported by international agencies, promote women’s economic participation in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Representation in Leadership

Seychelles is known for its relatively high representation of women in government, with women holding about 22.9% of the seats in the national parliament. Despite this achievement, the representation of women in corporate and political leadership positions remains a challenge. In response, the government has introduced leadership development programs aimed at increasing the number of women in senior positions, especially in politics and the corporate sector. These initiatives focus on mentoring young women and providing leadership training to help them rise through the ranks.

Conclusion

Seychelles has made notable progress in promoting women’s rights, particularly in education and political participation. Ongoing efforts, including police reforms, economic empowerment programs and awareness campaigns, are steadily addressing persistent challenges like gender-based violence and economic inequality. Continued collaboration between the government, international organizations and local communities will be key to achieving gender equality. By focusing on solutions and real progress, Seychelles is moving toward a future where women can fully exercise their rights and contribute to national development.

– Fiza Meeraj

Fiza is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Understanding and Addressing Gendered Poverty in Mozambique

Gendered Poverty in MozambiqueIn the southeast African nation of Mozambique, around 63% of the population lived in poverty in 2020, surviving on less than $1.90/day. Gender inequality further exacerbates this phenomenon – Mozambique ranks 139th out of 159 countries on the UNDP Gender Inequality Index. Gendered poverty in Mozambique takes the form of women having fewer educational and employment opportunities and being confined to a traditional role as mothers. While the government has fought this issue, much more is necessary to bring gender equality and economic prosperity to Mozambicans.

The Current State of Gendered Poverty

Most Mozambican women are in employment, but they work primarily in the informal sector for meagre wages. For example, in agriculture, the nation’s largest industry, 52.9% of employees in rural areas are women.

Most women engage in agriculture to provide for their families, but they are still mostly in traditional roles while men pursue more private sector jobs and economic mobility. With COVID-19 disproportionately affecting young women by halting access to education, employment, and food, they have since become even more disposed to early marriage and living in poverty compared to Mozambican men.

The nation’s government has attempted to combat gendered poverty in Mozambique. For example, a 2019 law banned the marriage of girls under the age of 18 to promote female autonomy and engagement with the economy rather than becoming mothers at too young of an age.

Furthermore, the Family Law and Law Against Domestic Violence have protected women’s rights in marriage and the family, such as inheritance, divorce, and personal rights.

Internationally, the government of Mozambique has signaled its intentions to protect women’s individual and family rights by adopting The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women the Optional Protocol to the African Charter on Human Rights and Peoples‟ Rights and the Rights of Women.

Although this emphasis on gender equality has seen positive effects like near-equal levels of female representation in low-level government positions, government policies have not done nearly enough to bring about gender equality as a tool for overcoming poverty.

International Efforts

Instead, foreign assistance and international organizations have stepped up to reinforce gender equality efforts. For instance, the United States Agency for International Development has implemented several programs targeting impoverished women in Mozambique. Working with the Mozambican government, USAID has introduced female farmers to more nutritious crop varieties and seeds while sharing efficient agricultural strategies and technology to provide for a growing population, according to its website.

USAID has also enforced the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) in Mozambique, reducing HIV rates in the country and providing safe testing and medical equipment to Mozambicans with HIV/AIDS, primarily women.

Additionally, USAID’s Vamos Ler! Program promotes higher rates of girls’ attendance in school through a curriculum that encourages role models of both genders, while also ensuring that students have the hygiene they need to remain enrolled in school, according to its website.

Another effort that recognizes the role of education in eradicating poverty is the World Bank-funded “Eu Sou Capaz” program, which gives both school uniforms and bicycles to young girls in school as an incentive for education and provides skills training to girls who have already completed schooling, according to World Bank.

The initiative has seen a narrowing in the educational gender gap and intends to expand its resources to cover more young Mozambicans in the coming years.

Looking Forward

These efforts toward gender equality are the first step in remedying gendered poverty in Mozambique. With decreased AIDS and maternal deaths and increased education and employment opportunities, Mozambican women will be able to step outside the home and become integral members of their developing nation’s economy. However, these programs cannot assert their full force without changing cultural views in Mozambique. Currently, society remains dominated by men in practice and in the minds of Mozambicans who perceive traditional family structures as the nation’s backbone.

A combined approach of national, international and cultural changes emphasizing a new role for women could help uplift Mozambique from extreme poverty.

– Cole Zickwolff

Cole is based in Carlsbad, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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UN Women Empowering Women in the Caribbean

Women in the CaribbeanThe Caribbean is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes. However, there is also a hidden persistence in its struggles against poverty and inequality. This is particularly the case in terms of gender, specifically for women. About 2.2% of women and girls in the Caribbean live in poverty at the $1.90 poverty line. Additionally, for every 100 men living in poverty, there are approximately 113 women, highlighting the gender disparity in economic hardship.

The United Nations (U.N.) Women is an organization dedicated to collaborating with Caribbean communities on initiatives aimed at addressing poverty and promoting female empowerment. Additionally, it focuses on promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, leadership and ending violence.

Causes of Gender Poverty in the Caribbean

Numerous factors contribute to the poverty faced by women and girls in the Caribbean. One key factor is education. While girls often outperform boys in school, many women struggle to transition to higher education or the workforce. This is due to unequal family responsibilities, early pregnancies and societal expectations. According to the World Bank, “one in three young women are not engaged in education, employment or training and are constrained due to their unequal role in family responsibilities, early pregnancy and gender norms that relegate them to the domestic sphere.”

The second factor is social norms and gender roles. In the Caribbean, traditional gender roles often confine women to the domestic sphere. This limits their opportunities for economic advancement and reinforces the cycle of poverty. Additionally, a significant contributor to women’s poverty is the prevalence of female-headed households. In many families, women are seen as the primary providers, which increases dependency and places significant financial strain on these households.

About UN Women’s Work in the Caribbean

The U.N. Women is actively engaged in several key areas to promote gender equality and empower women in the Caribbean. The purpose of the organization in the region and also globally is to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment. Some of the key areas it focuses on include:

  1. Leadership and Political Participation: U.N. Women supports initiatives to increase women’s participation in political and public life.
  2. Ending Violence Against Women: The organization offers several programs, including awareness campaigns, support services and policy advocacy, to fight gender-based violence against women.
  3. Economic Empowerment: It focuses on enhancing women’s economic opportunities by providing training, resources and support to help them enter and thrive in the workforce.

Successful Programs in the Caribbean

The U.N. Women has implemented highly successful programs that have been instrumental in empowering women in the Caribbean. Some of these include:

  1. Joint Program to Empower Women and Youth in Agri-Fisheries: Launched in 2020 in collaboration with the Government of Japan and other U.N. agencies, this program supported more than 162,000 people in the Caribbean, particularly women and marginalized youth. It focuses on enhancing livelihoods in agriculture, fisheries and small business sectors across countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Dominica.
  2. Women leadership: The organization has also supported the implementation of the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership (CIWiL), which fosters training programs for women aspiring to take a political or leadership role. This helps women in terms of reputation and participation in decision-making.
  3. Economic Empowerment: The nonprofit has also partnered with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to strengthen the rights of domestic workers in the Caribbean. In Jamaica, U.N. Women helped the Household Workers Association to become a formal union, providing a platform to promote the rights of more than 50,000 workers in the country.

Final Remarks

With the ongoing support of U.N. Women, there is hope that women and girls in the Caribbean will one day achieve lasting success and break free from the cycle of poverty. Indeed, by providing resources, education and opportunities, these efforts are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for the region’s women and girls.

– Destiny Cobos

Destiny is based in Brooklyn, NY and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Cabo Verde

Women’s Rights in Cabo VerdeCabo Verde has been and continues to actively address women’s rights and promote female empowerment through its law-making and advocacy efforts. Consequently, the country offers a beacon of hope for women and girls in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is also work being done to transform the tourism sector to improve women’s rights in Cabo Verde.

Women’s Rights in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde has made notable developments regarding women’s rights, with the government recognizing gender equality as a critical issue that must be addressed. In 2011 a law protecting women and girls against gender based violence was introduced as well as a legal framework. Since then, continued work has been put in place to uphold the rights of women in the court of law. Despite these efforts, the deep rooted nature of misogyny presents itself as a barrier to achieving gender equality in Cabo Verde. 

Gender Equality and Cabo Verde’s Tourism Sector

Cabo Verde depends on its tourism sector for approximately 25% of its GDP, driving the country rapidly forward in terms of its economic state and quality of life for citizens. As a result of Cabo Verde’s flourishing tourist engagement, there is an abundance of job opportunities available. However, the sector faces limitations regarding female participation. This poses a threat to tourism reaching its full potential as well as a threat to female empowerment and women’s rights in Cabo Verde. 

Women in Cabo Verde struggle to exercise their rights due to the systemic, deep-rooted nature of misogyny. This ensures that women are presented with less accessible educational opportunities, lower-paying and unstable jobs, expectations to uphold traditional values within the household and the threat of gender-based violence. As a result of these challenges, poverty disproportionately affects the women of Cabo Verde, representing, “53% of the poor population as well as 54% of the population in extreme poverty.” This hinders their ability to effectively participate in the tourism sector and hinders their personal economic potential.

Gender Mainstreaming

Recognizing the gender inequality within the tourism sector, U.N. Women and ICIEG came together to develop an action plan to address this through gender mainstreaming, making Cabo Verde one of the earliest tourist countries to do so. Gender mainstreaming involves creating policies that consider the interests and concerns of both men and women, with this action plan focusing on institutional strengthening, training and capacity building and women’s quality and empowerment. However, upon enacting the action plan, it faced complexities. Gender norms and societal expectations of women affect their career choices, often opting for gender-stereotyped, less entrepreneurial positions. The U.N. Women’s office additionally closed down in Cabo Verde which put the action plan on hold from 2017. 

In order to combat these challenges, in 2021 ITCV and ICIEG combined efforts to resume the action plan, also moving forward with new recommendations from the World Bank Group Gender strategy to guarantee that it is as gender responsive as possible, ensuring women ‘better, safe, and more jobs.’ Cabo Verde’s persistence through setbacks highlights their genuine commitment to protecting and improving women’s rights, paving the way for a positive future.

– Imogen Prince

Imogen is based in Oxford, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Afghanistan: Women’s Rights at Risk

Fragility and Rule of Law in AfghanistanThe Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist group, returned to power in 2021 after a 20-year insurgency. Following its ousting by a United States (U.S.)-led invasion in 2001, the group regrouped across the border in Pakistan. Within a decade they began reclaiming territory in Afghanistan. Since its return to power, the Taliban has severely threatened Afghan civil rights and liberties. The group has revived practices similar to its oppressive rule in the late 1990s. The United Nations (U.N.) mission in Afghanistan has reported numerous human rights violations. Journalists face intimidation, press freedoms have been sharply curtailed and several news organizations, including The Daily Afghanistan, have shut down. Additionally, the Taliban has reinstated the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, known for enforcing bans on activities deemed un-Islamic during its previous rule.

The Current State of Women’s Rights

Women’s rights in the region have been eradicated. According to Amnesty International, Afghanistan ranks last for women’s rights globally, positioned at 177 out of 177 countries on the Women’s Peace and Security Index for 2023/2024. It is the only country that restricts girls’ access to education beyond the sixth grade and prohibits women from working for nongovernmental organizations.

The Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has expanded its authority to control personal behavior and enforce punishments rigorously. This expansion is based on a 114-page document with 35 articles dictating nearly every aspect of life in Afghanistan. “We assure you that this Islamic law will greatly aid in promoting virtue and eliminating vice,” said ministry spokesman Maulvi Abdul Ghafar Farooq. The ministry’s enforcers have the authority to detain and fine law violators.

Article 13, focused on avoiding temptation, mandates that women must conceal their figures, cover their faces and refrain from making eye contact with men who are not family members. Article 15 prohibits women from traveling without a male guardian or interacting with unrelated men. Acting Minister Mohammad Khalid Hanafi emphasized that there would be “no compromise in the enforcement of Islamic laws.”

Fragility and Rule of Law in Afghanistan

The collapse of the previous government has led to a significant breakdown in legal protections for women: ​​

  • Replacement of Existing Laws. The Taliban has replaced the existing legal framework with its strict interpretation of Sharia law, abolishing many rights and protections that women previously enjoyed under the Afghan constitution and civil code.
  • Arbitrary Implementation. The new legal system often applies rules arbitrarily, lacking consistent application and due process. This unpredictability further undermines the rule of law and leaves women vulnerable to rights violations.
  • Limited Access to Justice. Under the new regime, women face severe limitations. Many formal legal institutions have ceased to function or now exclude women entirely. This effectively denies them any recourse to legal protection or dispute resolution.

International Responses

The U.N. has been at the forefront of condemning the Taliban’s actions and advocating for women’s rights in Afghanistan:

  • The U.N. Security Council Resolution 2681 (2023) called for the immediate removal of all restrictions violating the rights of Afghan women and girls. 
  • The U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has characterized the situation in Afghanistan as “gender apartheid.” The U.N. Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, has called on the Taliban to release women human rights defenders and respect all human rights of women and girls.
  • Many countries have used diplomatic channels to express their concerns. The United Kindom (U.K.) The ambassador to the U.N. denounced the Taliban’s actions as “medieval misogyny above humanitarian need.” Multiple U.N. member states, including Albania, Ecuador, Malta and Spain, have characterized the situation as gender apartheid in U.N. Security Council sessions.

Legal and Policy Initiatives

Several legal and policy initiatives are being pursued to address the fragility of the rule of law in Afghanistan. 

  • Codifying Gender Apartheid: Efforts are underway to codify gender apartheid as a crime against humanity, potentially involving the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing systematic discrimination against women in Afghanistan. U.N. experts have called for investigations into the Taliban, holding them accountable for human rights violations based on gender, which amount to gender persecution.
  • Targeted Sanctions: Some nations are exploring the implementation of targeted sanctions against specific Taliban leaders responsible for rights violations. This approach aims to increase pressure on decision-makers within the Taliban regime. 
  • Humanitarian Aid Principles: Calls are intensifying for principled engagement in humanitarian aid. Furthermore, demands are being made for the Taliban to immediately lift the ban on Afghan women working for the U.N. and NGOs. There is also a push for supporting the full and safe participation of women in humanitarian decision-making and delivery, alongside increased support for humanitarian organizations, particularly those led by Afghan women.
  • Accountability Mechanisms: There are growing calls for accountability, a key feature in truly upholding the rule of law. Advocates demand that perpetrators of international human rights and humanitarian law violations face accountability. They emphasize the need to address gender persecution and other abuses targeting diverse women and girls.

Looking Ahead

The fragility of the rule of law in Afghanistan underscores the challenges of maintaining legal protections in unstable political environments. This situation highlights the need for robust international mechanisms to safeguard human rights and uphold the rule of law in fragile states.

– Hannah Ravariere-Moakes

Hannah is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Economic Inclusion of Women in Uganda

Women in UgandaIn Uganda, women continue to find their capacity to materialize their potential hampered by deeply entrenched inequalities despite considerable political progress. The 1995 constitution rendered men and women equal before the law. Since then, numerous governmental initiatives have sought to eradicate gender-based discrimination. This includes the 2007 establishment of the Equal Opportunities Commission, a statutory authority that works to enforce anti-discrimination laws and equalize opportunity.

However, the United Nations (U.N.) has identified a chasm between this politically decreed equality and the living reality of Ugandan women, social mores frequently limiting their engagement in the public sphere. The result is a gaping monthly gender wage disparity of 32.3% and a mammoth loss in human capital and, thus, national wealth. Organizations of varying scales are, therefore, working to foster the economic inclusion of women in Uganda.

Resilient Women Uganda

Established in 2016, Resilient Women Uganda is a nongovernmental organization (NGO) that helps vulnerable girls and women escape cyclical poverty by creating spaces where they can blossom unimpeded by patriarchal beliefs that undervalue them.

Harmful practices mar the economic inclusion of women in Uganda. A massive 45% of female Ugandans have suffered physical abuse at the hands of their partner. Additionally, more than one in five have experienced sexual violence. Moreover, child marriage is rampant, with 34% of girls entering unions before they turn 18 and 7% before the age of 15.

Seeking to limit the effect that these breaches of basic rights have on girls’ development, Resilient Women Uganda operates a shelter for those in immediate danger of violence or exploitation, where they can access food, medical treatment and pastoral care.

Furthermore, the organization offers vocational training in various sectors, supporting its beneficiaries in sculpting a future. Through the program, at-risk girls aged between 13 and 19 can develop skills that will lead them to secure employment and become economically self-sufficient members of society. In 2023, 55 young women trained by the program found jobs in hairdressing and fashion design.

The Women’s Microfinance Initiative

The Women’s Microfinance Initiative (WMI) empowers female entrepreneurs from impoverished rural communities by providing them with microloans and increasing their financial literacy. Founded in Washington, D.C., in 2008, the organization operates through hubs across Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

The “Transition to Independence” program gives women access to four consecutive loans at a 10% flat interest rate, which they can use to propel their businesses into economic self-sufficiency. The program also provides a holistic support system that seeks to mold its beneficiaries into well-rounded participants in the economy. At the community-level hubs, operated by local women, the borrowers receive training in business and marketing, ongoing mentoring and free bookkeeping resources such as calculators and notebooks. They also open bank accounts as part of the program and develop a strong grasp of financial processes.

WMI combats exploitative lending practices through its woman-centered approach, which is reflected in an impressive loan recovery rate of 98%. Its borrowers experience a monthly income growth rate of between 100% and 400%. The organization’s impact is as far-reaching as it is remarkable; in 2023 alone, it provided 12,000 loans and it has served more than 28,000 women since its inauguration.

Moreover, WMI estimates that its loans impact an additional 20 people for every borrower. This considers the effect of increased household income on family members and the reach of each business’s roots within the community’s economic network. According to the U.N., self-employed women in Uganda face heightened vulnerability to poverty due to limited access to services and capital. WMI is working to remove these barriers and allow female entrepreneurship to flourish.

Women in Technology Uganda

Women in Technology Uganda (WITU) is an NGO that has supported girls and women from underprivileged communities with training programs in technology and entrepreneurship since 2014. The “Code Girls” program operates across primary, secondary and tertiary education to bring ICT training to young people, especially girls, who are otherwise unlikely to access STEM resources. In 2022, the program bridged the technological divide for 1,354 students.

WITU also offers talented young women the opportunity to complete a two-year diploma in Computer Science and Entrepreneurship through the Women’s Institute of Technology and Innovation. In 2022, 33 girls excluded from tertiary education because of a lack of financial means received scholarships.

Moreover, the 12-week “Elevate” program fosters economic autonomy by training young women from marginalized backgrounds in ICT and providing them with various marketing and employability skills. As of 2022, the program had served more than 6,000 women. Given that just 31% of Ugandan women have access to the internet, compared with 69% of men, WITU’s work represents a vital pathway toward improved economic inclusion of women in Uganda.

Moving Forward

Although significant challenges remain, numerous organizations are working to strengthen Uganda’s social fabric by fighting for a future where its women are free to incorporate their unique and colorful threads. Their efforts demonstrate what WMI aptly calls “a long-term investment in human potential” and their shared vision is one of a nation that holds equal promise for all of its people.

– Leila Powles

Leila is based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Empowering Women in West Africa

Women in West AfricaFrom Benin, Dossi Sekonnou Gloria remarks that “in West Africa, civil society organizations (CSOs) are viewed with a negative eye.” Discriminatory behavior and practices persist in Benin and regions across Africa. Women’s participation and representation in political processes are continuously undermined. The common perception of women as the “weaker race” poses challenges to women’s rights activists. However, that has not stopped Gloria’s desire to address social inequalities and empower women in West Africa.

The Women Leaders Network for Development

In 2012, Gloria founded the Women Leaders Network for Development or Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD). RFLD is a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable development and, more specifically, gender equality and women’s rights. The organization is based in West Africa and has its headquarters in Benin. RFLD is active in 27 countries and works with more than 60 women-led organizations, tackling both “structural and individual barriers to gender equality” and “social inclusion.”

Focus and Expertise

RFLD seeks to empower women in the context of regional initiatives that focus on issues surrounding:

  1. Economic Justice: This involves promoting sustainable livelihoods and financial independence among women.
  2. Ending Harmful Practices: This involves combatting gender-based violence, genital mutilation and other detrimental customs.
  3. Climate Justice: This involves teaching women how to adapt to climate change and develop sustainable practices.
  4. Human Rights: This involves protecting all human rights and providing access to sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice.
  5. Peace and Security: This involves promoting women’s participation in peacebuilding.
  6. Media Development and Freedom: This involves promoting media literacy to identify and combat harmful narratives.
  7. Integration of Gender and Social Inclusion: This involves including women in decision-making processes and providing equal access to services and resources.

Strategic Plan 2023-2028

In March 2024, RFLD announced that it was raising $10 million to fund its 2023–2028 Strategic Plan. The vision for change lies within the plan’s objectives, promoting:

  • Women’s rights, sexual and reproductive health and representation in decision-making bodies. 
  • Civil liberties and democratic values with a focus on human rights through our activities. 
  • Economic justice for women.
  • The principle of participatory governance, the innovative capacity of civil society and the development of the media.

The plan emphasizes the importance of women human rights defenders (WHRDs). Experienced women are best suited to address unique gender-based challenges, offer fresh perspectives and lead efforts in various human rights struggles, making their involvement essential for lasting change. WHRDs not only safeguard basic rights and freedoms but actively work to expand their influence and effectiveness. RFLD has recognized the vital role of these stakeholders and now strives to empower them with its strategic plan.

Country-Level Impact

Notable areas of impact are the issues covered at a country level. Across 27 countries, RFLD conducts awareness campaigns and education workshops, provides training and resources and supports a range of women, from entrepreneurs to small farmers. It also raises civil society activists, lawyers and judges on women’s rights.

From supporting women in the fishing industry in Mauritania and promoting gender equality in cocoa farming in Ghana to combating food insecurity and early marriage in Chad, RFLD’s work follows its various issues of focus. In Mauritius, the organization promotes women’s entrepreneurship in the technology sector. In the Central African Republic, RFLD promotes peacebuilding through interfaith dialogue. Its impact across sub-Saharan Africa is variable and ongoing and this hard work has allowed the RFLD’s progress to spread.

RFLD’s Delegation

The nonprofit’s influence is now reaching the African Union. The RFLD is funding a 13-person delegation to attend the 6th Gender Is My Agenda Campaign Network (GIMAC) Strategic Engagement in Accra, Ghana. The GIMAC Network aims to promote the rights and leadership of women in West Africa and monitor the implementation of the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa.

These events will go from 12 to 15 July 2024. The theme of the 6th GIMAC Strategic Engagement is “Educational Transformation for Gender Equity and Sustainability.” With a delegation composed of young women leaders, government officials and CSOs, women’s voices are amplified and contributions are made toward the future of girls’ education in Africa. The delegates also will benefit from the opportunity to network with influential leaders, represent their constituencies and contribute to discussions.

RFLD’s strategic plan, country-level impact and delegation are significant strides in women’s empowerment in sub-Saharan Africa. The organization symbolizes hope for a future where women in West Africa can flourish and fully exercise their rights.

– Caroline Albright

Caroline is based in Milton, MA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr