Asian Development Bank

Women in the Workforce Asian Development Bank

Despite economic growth, decreasing fertility rates, and rising education levels, women in Asia are on average 70% less likely than men to be in the labor force. Closing the gender gap could generate a 30% increase in the per capita income, according to this publication. It discusses the reasons behind the continuing gap in the labor force participation rate between women and men in Asia and the Pacific, the impact of this gap on economic growth, and policy lessons drawn from specific country experiences in the region and elsewhere. The publication argues that gender equality issues are so complex that policies must go beyond economics to to effectively address them. Such a multidimensional approach to reducing gender inequality could unleash a nation's full potential for inclusive growth and development.