Gender equality: progress, setbacks, and COVID-19 challenges toward 2030

Abstract

Despite advancements in recent decades, achieving the 2030 gender equality goal outlined in the United Nations' Agenda 2030 remains uncertain, compounded by the economic fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic. This study explores labor-related findings from a Costa Rican doctoral investigation, revealing that 39% of leadership positions are held by women for Sustainable Development Goal 5, while 61% are occupied by men. Globally, 2400 million women lack equal economic opportunities, and 178 countries face legal barriers hindering women's full participation. Initiatives like the Gender Parity Initiative (GPI) in Costa Rica strive to bridge gender gaps in labor market participation, compensation, and leadership. The study also highlights Sexist Microaggressions, subtle workplace insults reinforcing gender biases. Emphasizing the business case for gender equality, the analysis underscores women as the world's largest emerging market, with McKinsey predicting their global purchasing power to reach $40 trillion by 2025. To promote workplace gender equality, the study draws on the UN Agenda 2030, advocating for quality education, healthcare, decent work, and active social participation. The conclusion echoes Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' urgent call for collective action, emphasizing the need for commitment and bold measures to accelerate progress and bridge the gender gap.