In South Asia, only 1 in 3 women are in the workforce, compared to 3 out of 4 men. Millions of women are not getting the chance to realize their potential¡ªto work, earn an income, and contribute to their families, communities and economy. Even when they work, women often earn less than men and hold jobs without benefits and protections.
We call on all stakeholders to #ClearHerPath so that more women can thrive in the workforce.
Across South Asia, success stories of working women abound. Yet, alongside these stories, lies a persistent and confounding statistic: South Asia has one of the lowest female labor force participation rates in the world.
World Bank Managing Director Anna Bjerde talks to Kasturi Wilson, first woman CEO of Hemas Holdings PLC in Sri Lanka, about how closing the gender gap can contribute to economic growth.
To reshape its economy, South Asia must take action to challenge existing gender norms and give women more economic opportunities.
Investments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can accelerate development in South Asia¡ªespecially if they foster opportunities for women.