Archive for category: Women’s Empowerment

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Women Farmers in Guyana and Food Security

Women Farmers in GuyanaWomen farmers in Guyana and food security begin at the market level, where women dominate food distribution in areas such as Anna Regina, Corriverton and Georgetown. Vendors such as Jasmin Ramsammy at Skeldon Market in Berbice adjust supply based on demand during holidays like Diwali, while Nina Sarju at Port Mourant Market manages unsold goods by reselling or sharing them to reduce waste. These daily decisions directly affect food availability. In 2020, fruits and vegetables generated $3.3 million in exports, much of it supported by women’s labor.

Regional Production Shows Women’s Impact

Women farmers in Guyana and food security extend into farming communities such as Pomeroon in Essequibo and Belle West. Women grow crops such as bora, pumpkin, tomatoes and peppers, supplying both households and urban markets. Traders, often women, transport produce weekly from Pomeroon to Georgetown, linking rural farms to cities. Malika Deokarran, who leads a 75-member farming group, plays a key role in organizing pricing and distribution, showing how women sustain the supply chain.

Women farmers in Guyana and food security face the greatest challenges in the hinterland regions of Regions 1, 7, 8, and 9. Poverty in these areas reaches up to 55%, limiting access to infrastructure and markets. Many women rely on small kitchen gardens to support their families rather than operate large-scale farms, which reduces overall productivity and income potential.

Food Loss in Berbice and Coastal Regions

Food loss significantly affects women farmers in Guyana and food security, especially in coastal regions such as Berbice. Nearly 30% of fruits and vegetables are lost annually due to flooding, poor storage and transportation issues. Vendors in Berbice markets often face spoilage if goods are not sold quickly, leading to financial loss and reduced food supply.

Programs Supporting Women Farmers

Current programs are improving conditions for women farmers in Guyana and food security, particularly in rural communities. Government initiatives have provided tools and inputs to farmers in areas such as the Corentyne Coast, helping boost production. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) training programs focus on reducing post-harvest losses and improving climate resilience. Women-led groups are also expanding agro-processing, producing goods such as cassava products and coconut oil to increase income and reduce waste.

Looking Ahead

Women farmers in Guyana are essential to the country’s food system. From Berbice vendors managing daily sales to Pomeroon farmers supplying urban markets, women support every stage of production and distribution. Expanding access to land, credit and training, especially in the most affected regions, could increase productivity and strengthen national food security.

– Kianna Hines

Kianna is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty Reduction and Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria

Women Entrepreneurs in NigeriaWomen entrepreneurs in Nigeria are redefining women’s roles in society and the greatest beneficiary of their inclusion in the entrepreneurship space is the economy. Women in entrepreneurship of Nigeria have played an increasingly significant role in reducing poverty. This shift comes after being previously excluded from formal employment and financial opportunities due to traditional systems that limited women’s participation in business.

Female-led companies have created jobs, driven local economic growth and expanded access to essential goods and services across sectors. Here are some ways women entrepreneurs continue to strengthen the economy of Nigeria while advancing broader efforts to reduce poverty.

Improving Access To Essential Health Services

Olamide Orekunrin was on one of her frequent visits to her home city, Lagos, when her sister became critically ill. With no equipment or drugs to revive her and no reliable way to get her to a hospital, the situation quickly turned critical. What would have been easily accessible lifesaving care in many places instead exposed a gap in Lagos’ health system that led to her sister’s untimely death.

This motivated Orekunrin to start Flying Doctors, a medical emergency service specializing in air ambulances. The organization introduced the first air ambulance service in Nigeria and West Africa. Flying Doctors has successfully evacuated victims of road accidents, bomb blasts, fire outbreaks and other mishaps across Africa. 

Female-led businesses like Flying Doctors combine passion with humanitarianism and have helped ensure that all Nigerians have access to essential emergency medical services.

Supporting Community Development

When it comes to entrepreneurship, women-led businesses reinvest up to 90% of income back into their families and communities, compared to 30–40% for men. Female entrepreneurs in Nigeria have launched initiatives such as skills-training programs, education services and other community-focused enterprises. Tutoring and educational initiatives help keep children in school longer.

Each additional year of schooling for girls can increase future earnings by up to 20%. Child care centers enable mothers to remain in the workforce and accelerate their career paths while balancing motherhood. Skills and training programs do the same. These services, which allow more women to join the workforce and children to stay in school longer, are tackling both child poverty and female poverty.

Job Creations

With women accounting for 43% of micro-enterprise ownership and about 40% of early-stage entrepreneurial activity, their businesses are a major source of employment and income in communities where poverty is widespread. Women-owned businesses employ several low-income women and youth. These businesses provide essential services like tailoring and clothing, transportation and logistics, food retail and hospitality and digital services and e-commerce.

These businesses not only expand access to affordable everyday services in underserved communities, but also create jobs for the people in those communities. In doing so, they are reducing reliance on Nigeria’s limited formal job market. By generating income and supporting more sustainable livelihoods, women-led enterprises are helping households and communities lift themselves out of extreme poverty.

Final Remarks

Ultimately, women-owned businesses often serve female customers and underserved communities, especially in informal sectors and rural areas. Through business networks and support systems, women are also better able to overcome barriers to finance, market access and formal business opportunities. In many cases, women-led enterprises create jobs and income opportunities for other women and young people in their communities in Nigeria.

This ripple effect strengthens local economies while expanding opportunities for groups historically excluded from formal work. Across Nigeria, female entrepreneurs are expanding access to financial services, health care, education, food and employment. From agriculture to digital finance, women-led enterprises are filling critical service gaps in underserved communities and driving more inclusive economic growth.

– Yemi Mary John

Yemi is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Grassroots Groups Driving Women’s Empowerment in Haiti

Women's Empowerment in HaitiGrassroots groups driving women’s empowerment in Haiti are addressing the deep intersection of poverty and gender inequality in one of the most economically challenged countries in the Western Hemisphere. More than 60% of Haiti’s population lives below the poverty line, with more than 25% in extreme poverty. Despite these conditions, women remain active in the workforce, with a labor force participation rate of 58.3% compared to 69.7% for men. 

However, economic participation has not translated into equality. Haiti ranked 163rd out of 170 countries on the Gender Inequality Index and its Gender Development Index score of 0.898 falls well below the regional average of 0.963. These figures highlight that women contribute significantly to the economy but still lack access to resources, financial security and decision-making power.

Barriers Facing Women in Rural Economies

Women in Haiti face persistent structural barriers that limit their economic advancement. In rural areas, where agriculture supports nearly half of the workforce, women play a central role in farming and household management but often lack access to land, credit and formal markets. Environmental challenges such as drought, soil degradation and limited infrastructure further reduce productivity and income stability. 

Cultural norms also restrict women’s participation in leadership and higher-paying sectors. For example, in the fishing industry, women are often confined to processing and selling fish while relying on fishermen for supply, which limits their bargaining power. These overlapping challenges reinforce cycles of poverty and economic dependence.

Grassroots Solutions Creating Economic Opportunity

Grassroots groups in Haiti are responding to these challenges through community-led, cooperative-based solutions. One example is the Women’s Initiative from The Haiti Project, which supports women in the rural village of Chermaitre. The initiative began when women came together to share their experiences of hardship and resilience, eventually forming the Chermaitre’s Women cooperative.

This program focuses on developing business skills, strengthening collaboration and creating sustainable income opportunities. By centering local leadership, the initiative ensures that women actively shape their economic futures and build solutions tailored to their community’s needs.

Women’s Empowerment in Haiti

The cooperative model combines economic opportunity with long-term social empowerment. Women in the Chermaitre’s Women cooperative produce goods such as coffee, peanut butter and handmade crafts, including textiles and jewelry, which they sell in local and international markets. By pooling resources and sharing profits, the cooperative reduces financial risk and increases collective bargaining power. 

Women use their earnings to pay school fees, invest in agriculture and improve household stability, particularly during periods of environmental stress. Participation also builds financial literacy, confidence and leadership skills. This creates a clear chain of impact: income leads to independence, independence strengthens decision-making power and decision-making power increases women’s influence in their communities. 

In this way, these grassroots organizations empowering women in Haiti transform economic participation into meaningful advocacy.

The Impacts of Grassroots Cooperatives on Women

The success of this model reflects a broader global pattern in which grassroots women’s cooperatives drive sustainable development. Evidence shows that cooperatives increase income while also expanding leadership capacity by giving women opportunities to make decisions, manage finances and resolve conflicts. Many women in these groups take on leadership roles for the first time, helping to challenge traditional gender norms. 

These cooperatives also support environmental sustainability through activities like reforestation and soil restoration. Globally, gender equality is essential to achieving development outcomes, including poverty reduction, food security and climate resilience. In fact, empowering women is considered critical to achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing that economic inclusion drives long-term progress.

Funding Gaps Limit Grassroots Impact

However, despite their effectiveness, grassroots organizations in Haiti face significant funding challenges. For instance, of the total $6.43 billion invested in Haiti’s development from 2010-2012, only 0.6% of that funding has gone directly to Haitian-based nonprofit organizations. At the same time, 90% of women-led and women’s rights organizations globally report experiencing funding cuts.

Despite limited resources, grassroots groups in Haiti continue to strengthen leadership, improve safety for women and girls and respond to ongoing crises. This imbalance highlights a critical gap: the most effective, community-based solutions often receive the least financial support. Expanding direct investment would allow these organizations to scale their impact and reach more women.

A Path Toward Sustainable Change

Ultimately, women’s grassroots groups in Haiti demonstrate that economic empowerment can drive lasting social change. Programs like the Women’s Initiative show that when women gain access to income, skills and leadership opportunities, they do more than support their families; they strengthen entire communities. Expanding support for grassroots, cooperative-based initiatives offers a clear pathway toward reducing poverty, advancing gender equality and building a more sustainable future for Haiti.

– Kianna Hines

Kianna is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Women’s Self-Help Groups in India Are Reducing Poverty

Women’s Self Help Groups in India Across rural India, women’s self-help groups (SHGs) play a central role in expanding financial inclusion. These groups typically consist of 12 to 15 women who meet regularly, save money and provide small loans to one another while also connecting with formal banking systems. By pooling their resources, members gain access to credit and can invest in income-generating activities.

The World Bank reports that SHGs connect underserved communities with financial institutions and help millions of unbanked households enter the formal economy. Today, more than 80 million women participate in these networks, making SHGs one of the largest community-driven financial systems worldwide. In addition to financial access, SHGs provide platforms for training, information-sharing and community support. 

These groups help women increase household income, improve health practices and strengthen their role in decision-making. As a result, SHGs expand financial inclusion while also driving long-term social and economic change in rural communities.

National Rural Livelihoods Mission

In 2011, the Government of India launched the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) to reduce rural poverty by strengthening women-led economic networks. As one of the world’s largest livelihood initiatives, the program aims to reach around 350 million people across 12 states, where the majority of India’s rural poor live. NRLM organizes rural women into SHGs and provides them with training, financial literacy and access to credit. 

These groups help women build savings, invest in small businesses and connect with formal banking systems. In addition, the program supports farmers, artisans and small producers by linking them to markets and strengthening their ability to negotiate fair prices. Beyond financial support, NRLM also invests in skill development for rural youth and promotes entrepreneurship at the local level. 

By combining access to finance with market opportunities, the initiative helps women move beyond subsistence work and build more stable sources of income. This large-scale approach has also created opportunities for collaboration with organizations and local initiatives that further support women’s economic participation.

Strengthening Women Entrepreneurs in India

Several organizations in India actively support women entrepreneurs by providing skills, networks and access to economic opportunities. These initiatives focus on helping women build stable incomes rather than rely on short-term support.

The Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), founded in 1972, organizes women working in India’s informal economy and represents more than 3.7 million members across the country. SEWA provides financial services, training and collective support, enabling women to improve their working conditions and secure more reliable incomes. By bringing informal workers together, the organization strengthens both economic security and bargaining power.

The Raise India Foundation works directly with communities to improve access to education, skills training and job opportunities. Over the past decade, the organization has reached more than 1.8 million people through projects across several Indian states. Its programs equip women with practical skills and support them in entering the workforce or starting small businesses.

At the same time, individual entrepreneurs are creating new pathways for economic participation. Designers like Diya Joukani build independent brands by combining local craftsmanship with digital platforms. Through her work, she creates and sells her own designs, generating income while promoting locally made products.

Together, these efforts show how structured support and individual initiative can strengthen women’s economic participation and contribute to poverty reduction across India.

Women Entrepreneurs Transforming Local Communities

At the community level, women-led businesses are reshaping everyday economic life. From tailoring and food production to small retail ventures, these businesses generate income while creating new opportunities within local economies. As more women gain access to financial tools, training and support networks, they continue to build independent livelihoods and strengthen economic stability.

This progress highlights how women’s self-help groups in India are helping reduce poverty by expanding financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurship. Through both organized initiatives and individual efforts, women are increasing household incomes and contributing to long-term community development.

India’s experience shows that when women receive the right support, the impact extends far beyond individual success. Women entrepreneurs are not only improving their own living conditions but also helping to build more resilient and inclusive communities for the future.

– Elif Oktar

Elif is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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SDG 5 in Kazakhstan: Barriers and Reform Efforts

SDG 5 in KazakhstanSDG 5 in Kazakhstan focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls by ending discrimination, violence and harmful practices. While the country has implemented progressive reforms such as gender quotas and anti-violence laws, challenges remain in key areas like child marriage, domestic violence and political representation. Ongoing cooperation among the government, U.N. agencies and civil society is building momentum toward achieving SDG 5 by 2030.

Legal Barriers

In Kazakhstan, the legal marriage age is officially 18. However, exceptions allow marriage at 17, with parental consent or as young as 16 in cases of pregnancy. These provisions undermine SDG 5’s target to eliminate child marriage without exception. According to UNICEF, around 7% of girls in Kazakhstan marry before the age of 18 and early unions are more common in rural areas and among lower-income families. 

Moreover, bride kidnapping, though illegal, continues to occur in some regions, reflecting harmful traditional practices that persist despite awareness campaigns.

Organizations such as UNICEF Kazakhstan, Equality Now and the Kazakh Women’s Rights Committee have been active in advocating for stricter enforcement of marriage laws and awareness programs to discourage underage unions. These groups recommend raising the marriage age to 18 with no exceptions, improving legal protections for girls and expanding education campaigns in rural areas.

Gender-Based Violence in Kazakhstan

Gender-based violence remains one of the most serious barriers to achieving SDG 5 in Kazakhstan. According to U.N. Women, about 17% of women aged 18–49 in Kazakhstan have experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner, though underreporting remains a major issue. In 2024, the parliament introduced a new bill aimed at strengthening penalties for sexual, psychological and economic abuse and expanding state protection for survivors. The bill also proposes mandatory restraining orders and specialized crisis centers for victims.

The government is also preparing to ratify the Istanbul Convention on preventing violence against women, signaling a stronger international commitment. Local NGOs such as the Union of Crisis Centers also play a vital role in documenting cases, running hotlines and helping victims access legal support. 

Political Underrepresentation

Despite progress, women still hold a limited number of leadership positions. In 2024, women made up 19.4% of Kazakhstan’s parliament, below the global average of 27.5%. This remains the case despite a 30% quota for women and youth on party electoral lists introduced in 2021. The issue lies in implementation, as women are often placed lower on party lists, reducing their chances of being elected.

Advocacy organizations such as the Kazakhstan Feminist Initiative “Feminita” and the National Commission on Women’s Affairs and Family Policy are calling for greater transparency in the enforcement of quotas and for leadership training programs for young women. These groups argue that stronger female representation can lead to more inclusive public policies, particularly on child care, workplace equality and anti-violence legislation.

Economic Gaps

Kazakhstan has made strides in women’s economic participation. In 2024, 65.99% of women were part of the labor force, above the global average. The government has worked to remove outdated job restrictions for women and expand entrepreneurship programs. 

Women’s Entrepreneurship Centers, launched by the Ministry of Economy and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), now operate across the country, offering financial training and startup support. However, women still carry the majority of unpaid domestic and care work, which continues to limit their economic mobility. SDG 5 calls for shared responsibility for unpaid work and greater access to affordable childcare. 

Strengthening maternity protections, introducing flexible work policies and expanding public childcare centers could help ensure women’s continued participation in Kazakhstan’s growing economy.

Solutions Advancing SDG 5 in Kazakhstan

The U.N. and the Government of Kazakhstan are jointly implementing the 2026–2030 Gender Equality Roadmap, with more than $172 million invested since 2021 in data collection, justice reform and prevention programs. Women’s advocacy groups, from urban NGOs to rural community networks, are also helping drive policy reform while increasing visibility for gender equality nationwide.

With stronger laws, greater support for survivors of violence and continued reform in politics and the workplace, Kazakhstan is building the foundation to achieve SDG 5. The goal is to ensure gender equality and empower all women and girls by 2030.

– Niaz Youssefian

Niaz is based in Cardiff, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women in South Sudan Are Creating Their Own Financial Futures

Women in South Sudan Since gaining independence in July 2011, South Sudan’s women have remained on the front lines of the country’s struggles. Deep-rooted patriarchal norms, gender-based violence and financial exclusion continue to limit their full participation in society. Despite these challenges, many women persist, advocating for peace, stability and progress.

In response, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan has recognized both their resilience and the urgent need for reform. It implemented a multifaceted strategy to advance gender equality, support women’s development and position women as central to the country’s future.

South Sudanese Women Are Shaping Their Financial Futures

Across South Sudan, women have long sustained households and communities through farming, harvesting and trade. Yet conflict, limited access to education and finance and widespread gender-based violence have repeatedly constrained their progress. For decades, many women’s ambitions have far exceeded the opportunities available to them.

That reality is beginning to shift. In 2023, the South Sudan Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP) launched as a four-year, $52 million government-led initiative funded by the World Bank. The project is expanding opportunities for women by providing business skills training and financial support to help them start, sustain and grow their own businesses.

NGOs Expand Economic Opportunities for Women in South Sudan

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are also helping expand economic opportunities for women in South Sudan. Groups such as the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI), the Women’s Peace and Development Initiative and Women for Women International focus on strengthening women’s entrepreneurial capacity. In 2025, WPDI celebrated 150 women who graduated from its entrepreneurship program in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. 

As more women launch businesses, many are gaining greater financial stability for themselves and their families. NGOs continue to play a critical role in advancing women’s rights in South Sudan, especially in areas where government support remains limited. Several organizations are working directly to improve women’s access to justice, economic opportunity and community support:

  • Women for Justice and Equality (WOJE) focuses on gender justice, peacebuilding, health and economic empowerment. The organization has reached more than 110,000 people through programs that support women’s rights and livelihoods.
  • South Sudan Women Empowerment Network (SSWEN) prioritizes women’s rights advocacy, financial empowerment and anti-violence initiatives. It has become a key civil society network promoting women’s participation and equality across the country.

How Entrepreneurship Is Changing Lives in South Sudan

One recent success story is that of Rose Juru Chaplin, a South Sudanese entrepreneur who owns a boutique in Munuki Market. With support from the SSWSEEP, she gained the training and assistance needed to strengthen her business skills and expand her enterprise. Her boutique now serves as a key source of income for her family while helping her build greater financial security.

Chaplin’s experience reflects a broader shift taking place across South Sudan, where hundreds of women-owned businesses have received similar support. Her story highlights how access to training and financial assistance is helping women strengthen not only their own livelihoods but also those of their families, local economies and communities.

Conclusion

The resilience of South Sudanese women continues to drive a powerful shift from survival to economic participation and growth. While challenges such as weak infrastructure and ongoing economic instability remain, the progress women are making highlights the impact of investing in female entrepreneurship. Programs that combine education, financial access and peer support are proving to be effective tools for long-term development.

As South Sudan continues to rebuild, women entrepreneurs are playing a critical role in shaping the country’s future. Through determination and increased access to opportunity, they are improving their own lives while driving meaningful change across their families, communities and the wider economy.

– Erin Sian Mongillo

Erin is based in North Haven, CT, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Strengthening Legal Framework Against Forced Marriages in Italy

Forced Marriages in ItalyItaly is located in Southern and Western Europe, with a population of 59.5 million as of 2023, according to the World Health Organization. Situated in the Mediterranean, its mountainous and hilly terrain contributes to a diverse climate year-round. According to the European Institute for Gender Equality, an estimated 27% of women in Italy have experienced violence.

With violence against women still a central issue, the Istanbul Convention aims to strengthen the legal framework against all forms of gender-based violence, including forced marriage. 

The Istanbul Convention: Article 37

The Council of Europe Convention, under Article 37 of the Istanbul Convention, defines a forced marriage as: 

  1. Intentional conduct of forcing an adult or a child to enter into a marriage.
  2. Intentional conduct of luring an adult or a child to the territory of a Party or State other than the one in which they reside, to force that adult or child to enter into a marriage.

Forced Marriages in Italy

Women and girls across Italy have experienced and continue to experience forced marriage, often imposed by parents, relatives and even religious leaders. These marriages may be enforced through coercion, including threats and violence.

The legal marriage age in Italy is 18. However, according to Juma Map Services for Refugees, a juvenile court may authorize exceptions, allowing minors of at least 16 years to marry legally.

Italy, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, is committed to eliminating child, early and forced marriage by 2030, according to Girls Not Brides. The country signed the Istanbul Convention on September 27, 2012 and it entered into force on August 1, 2014.

The Istanbul Convention: Ongoing Targets

The convention aims to prevent violence against women, protect victims and those at risk and prosecute perpetrators. Key protection and prosecution measures outlined by the European Commission include:

  • Accessible shelters: Member states must ensure shelters are readily accessible to victims and fairly distributed nationwide.
  • Helplines: A free, 24/7 helpline must be available across all member states, providing safety and professional support.
  • Violence against women as a crime: This includes psychological and physical violence, sexual violence and rape, stalking, female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage, forced abortion and forced sterilization.
  • Thorough investigations: Authorities must carry out prompt and effective investigations into all forms of violence against women, ensuring immediate protection.
  • Protection for migrants and asylum seekers: Women in these groups are particularly vulnerable and must receive targeted protection.

A Successful Prevention Method in Italy

In 2014–2015, the Italian government launched an initiative to educate the public on violence against women, with a particular focus on engaging men and encouraging behavioral change. The program was later introduced in schools, where it helped educate young students on preventing gender-based violence.

Looking Ahead 

Forced marriages have prompted stronger legal responses to violence against women across Italy. The Istanbul Convention, adopted by multiple countries, has contributed to efforts aimed at reducing the vulnerability of women and girls to violence. Education initiatives, such as those described above, remain key to ensuring awareness continues to spread among younger generations.

– Zara Ashraf 

Zara is based in London, UK  and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Gender Pay Gap in Slovenia

Gender Pay Gap in SloveniaGender equality in Slovenia has been improved drastically over time, yet performance is considered lower than EU standards. Slovenia recorded a score of 58.0 points out of 100 in the gender equality index, holding 18th place in the EU. This is attributed to low performance in the domains of knowledge and power. The gender pay gap in Slovenia is regarded as one of the clearest signs that this progress has not yet been translated into an equal workplace.

Gender Disparities in Earnings and Why It Matters

 Gender disparities in earnings in Slovenia are considered among the lowest in the EU. Women who have a partner earn an average of 84% of their spouses’ earnings, while men who live with their partners earn an average of 27% more than their spouses. The European Institute for Gender Equality has reported that the gender pay gap is most pronounced for young people, foreign born individuals and couples that have children.

A small national average gap can still coexist with serious unfairness if women are overrepresented in low-paid roles or underpaid within the same jobs. Through strong transparency rules, enforcement and cultural change around caregiving and leadership, Slovenia will be crucial for Slovenia to move from a relatively small gap to genuine pay for equal work.

Improvements Over Time

The biggest improvement over time has taken place in the domain of power. Political power has increased, with a share of women on the board of the central bank. Slovenia’s score in the domain of money has also improved, which has improved the gender pay gap in terms of the distribution of earnings and income. Slovenia has recorded the third-highest score of the EU-28 in the sub-domain of economic situation, which deals with the risk of poverty and the distribution of wealth throughout the population.

Why the Gap Persists 

The gender pay gap persists in Slovenia both between employers and within the same employers. Women and men ending up in different jobs partly explains the rising job gaps. Slovenia has overtaken its regional peers’ gender pay gaps at 7.2%, alongside a high female labor force and stronger workplace equality measures. These figures are promising, but smaller gaps can sometimes reflect labor market structures where women are over-represented in low-paid sectors, rather than true career advancement or leadership roles. Persistent informal norms and expectations about gender roles keep inequality and the gender pay gap in place.

Consequences for Women in Slovenia

The gender pay gap has real consequences for women and their families. A woman who is consistently earning less than their male colleagues has less money to cover rising costs, save for emergencies or invest in housing. Over time, lower pay, as well as taking breaks for childcare, means women will have a smaller pension, leaving them at a greater risk of experiencing poverty at old age. The average man’s pension in Slovenia is 10% higher than women’s. Women who see their work as undervalued are often less likely to apply for promotions, which reinforces the idea that top positions are ‘for men.’ This cycle shows why even a relatively small national pay gap can cause huge inequalities. 

Solutions To Tackle the Gender Pay Gap

 Slovenia does not currently have a national mandatory gender pay gap reporting system for employers, but as an EU member, it will need to implement the EU Pay Transparency Directive by June 7, 2026. This will impose gender pay gap reporting and greater pay transparency in future years. These new rules will introduce structured obligations, more visibility for employees, and concrete enforcement measures, and workers will have the right to know the average pay for doing the same or equivalent work. For Slovenia, this is a huge turning point as greater transparency makes hidden gaps visible and allows women, unions and society to demand change, hence why detailed reporting is crucial.

Another initiative that the government introduced to tackle the gender pay gap is by introducing specific guidelines for gender mainstreaming in the work of ministries. This will help ministries in gender mainstreaming in their specific fields of work and specify the roles of Coordinators for Equal Opportunities of Men and Women. The goals of the resolution from 2023-2030 include reducing the gender pay gap in all areas of social life, achieving an equal division of care work between parents, and overcoming stereotypes and sexist and discriminatory practices that deepen gender inequality.

Looking to the Future

There have been huge improvements in the effort to resolve the gender pay gap in Slovenia. However, inequalities still prevail, through governments implementing a national mandatory gender pay gap reporting system as well as guidance for gender mainstreaming, Slovenia will be able to lessen the gender pay gap, ensuring a better quality of living for all people.

– Bonnie Parkinson

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Women-Led Government Drives Gender Equality in Namibia

Gender Equality in NamibiaIn the last 18 months, Namibia has emerged as a leader of gender equality in sub-Saharan Africa. In the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Index, Namibia ranks first among African nations and 8th globally. The country’s progress reflects decades of gender-focused policies and increasing representation of women in political leadership.

The U.N., the World Economic Forum and the World Bank widely recognize that when women hold political power, they often prioritize reforms that strengthen economies and make governments more responsive to citizens’ needs. As the U.N. notes, “Women’s equal participation and leadership in political and public life are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.” 

In the wake of International Women’s Day 2026, The Borgen Project is highlighting Namibia’s women-led government and the recent reforms that demonstrate how this leadership can drive tangible social and economic progress.

Female Political Leadership in Namibia

The key factor distinguishing Namibia’s progress toward gender equality from that of other nations is the strong representation of women across its government, which has enabled significant social, economic and civic reforms. Currently, Namibia’s president, vice president, speaker of the National Assembly and eight of its 14 cabinet ministers are women. According to the U.N. Women and Inter-Parliamentary Union ranking, Namibia ranks first in the world for women’s representation in government leadership. 

This level of representation has also led to greater policy and fiscal prioritization of social reform and education, contributing to poverty reduction in the country.

Gender Equality in Namibia: Driving Policy Reform

Several reforms in Namibia have both contributed to and benefited from women’s presence in political leadership. The National Gender Policy, renewed for another decade in 2025 by the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, strengthens gender equality by providing a framework to address the intersections of poverty, social attitudes and gender-based violence.

Since 1998, Namibia’s employment law has been shaped by the Affirmative Action Act, which promotes fair hiring practices, expands employment opportunities for women and protects against pay disparities. These measures help normalize a gender-equal workforce in which women are hired, paid and treated equally in the workplace.

Namibia is often referred to as the birthplace of the U.N.’s Women, Peace and Security agenda, which was adopted as a resolution in 2000. The country presided over its adoption 26 years ago and now has one of the world’s most gender-balanced cabinets.

Expanding Economic Opportunities for Namibian Women

The Ministry of Gender Equality’s Beijing+30 Country Report highlights Namibia’s recent progress in advancing gender equality. In economic development, the government has focused on equal pay, ending workplace harassment and improving women’s access to financial infrastructure and services. Supported by U.N. Women and the World Bank, Namibia’s Affirmative Action Act has increased women’s participation in executive, management and public service roles. 

As a result, women now represent a larger share of employed professionals than men, reflecting the impact of broader equality policies in the country. In 2014, the Namibian government adopted Gender-Responsive Budgeting Guidelines to direct public funds toward gender equality and equitable socioeconomic development for women, men and children. In practice, this has meant allocating millions of Namibian dollars to community development centers, education, agricultural infrastructure and income grants, all identified for their roles in improving the livelihoods of women and children.

However, in 2025, less than 2% of the national budget was allocated through gender-responsive budgeting. Namibia’s speaker of the National Assembly has argued that for the policy to have a lasting impact, it must be implemented consistently rather than only when the need arises, noting that “sporadic success isn’t systemic transformation.”

Education and Social Development

Primary education has been free in Namibia since 2013 and secondary education since 2016. Enrollment now stands at about 90% and the country has achieved near gender parity, with similar numbers of boys and girls attending school. In the classroom, students have access to programs that support girls’ pathways into STEM and leadership, alongside curriculum campaigns promoting girls’ rights and gender equality in Namibia.

These initiatives aim to expand educational and professional opportunities for young women, particularly in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. Research from the World Bank shows that universal education for girls is closely linked to higher future earnings, improved health outcomes and long-term poverty reduction.

What Namibia’s Progress Means Globally

The trickle-down effect of women holding political power has undoubtedly improved gender equality in Namibia. These figures have directly influenced the creation and development of gender-focused policies that target social and economic reforms nationwide. The reforms reach workplaces and classrooms, giving women and girls the knowledge, tools and institutional support to contribute to the country’s sustainable development for generations to follow.

Namibia’s experience demonstrates that sustained political commitment to gender equality can lead to measurable social and economic gains. This commitment, which itself becomes both a cause and effect of representative leadership, can move the country and the African continent closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, with women leading the charge.

– Hannah Michie

Hannah is based in Nice, France and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Closing the Gender Wage Gap in Uruguay & Poverty Reduction

Gender Wage Gap in UruguayAbout 83.3% of girls whereas 72.7% of boy’s complete lower secondary school in Uruguay as of 2023 with literacy rates almost equivalent between men and women (98.6% – 99.2%). Yet the proportion of women living in poverty (8.8%) is nearly double that of men (4.8%). As education isn’t the issue, the cause could be the gender wage gap in Uruguay.

The Gender Wage Gap in Uruguay

The gender wage gap refers to the average difference in hourly earnings between working men and women, usually expressed as a percentage. In Uruguay, INE analysis shows men generally earn up to 27% more than women. Women and girls aged 15+ also spend nearly double as much of their time doing unpaid work (19.9%) compared to men, who spend 8.4% of their time on unpaid work according to UN Women.

Workers in vulnerable employment are the least likely to have formal working contracts, social protection or safety nets to protect them from economic shocks, which makes them more likely to fall into poverty. Women hold 24.7% of vulnerable employment in Uruguay.

As of 2026, a woman has never held the office of the presidency in Uruguay. Today, women occupy 22.3% of parliamentary seats in Uruguay, despite women making up 51.5% of the population. Underrepresentation in politics can stop policymakers from pushing policies that advance women’s roles in the workforce as well as their earning potential.

Progress Towards Addressing the Gender Wage Gap

Uruguay has made major moves forward in women’s rights since the 20th century, which reduced women’s poverty and improved the economy overall. The labor force participation rate for women has increased by nearly 10% since 1990 (42.6% then compared to 57.3% now). This rate stands higher than the average across Latin America and the Caribbean where women’s labor force participation rates sit at 51.2%.

The share of women working in high income positions has also increased marginally since 1990 (50.1% in 1990 compared to 54.3% today). This figure stands slightly higher than the global rate of women working in high income positions, which sits at 49.1%. 

What More Can be Done?

Despite these incredibly important milestones over the last century, Uruguay has not yet achieved gender equality in wages, which contributes to continued poverty in the country today.

Research suggests that governments could reduce the gender wage gap by implementing policies that allow women to participate in the workforce more freely. Policies that reduce informal employment, strengthen labor protections and identify and address discrimination or gender bias in hiring, pay and promotion would greatly benefit women in work according to the Inter-American Development Bank.

Conclusion

Uruguay has progressed in gender equality related to the wage gap by improving the pathway from education to workforce participation. Nevertheless, disparities remain in income and employment conditions, which contributes to higher levels of poverty across the country.

International organizations such as UN Women and the Inter-American Development Bank indicate that implementing policies and addressing informal employment could significantly reduce gender gaps. 

– Yemi Mary John

Yemi is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr