Gender data are key to achieving gender equality and a form of empowerment for women and girls around the world. At the global level, gender data enables policy makers and businesses to take evidence-based decisions that increase women’s well-being, access to economic opportunities and overall development outcomes.
In 1993, the Declaration of the Elimination of Violence Against Women recognized that violence against women violates women’s rights and fundamental freedoms, and called on states to work towards its eradication. However, thirty years on, women continue to face the risk of violence at home, on the street, on transport, in schools and in the workplace. The World Bank has increasingly engaged to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
Addressing critical gender gaps, including female labor force participation, offers an opportunity to boost incomes and stimulate growth. Research from the World Bank has repeatedly made clear that accelerating gender equality can generate significant economic gains.