A recent World Bank report highlights that less than half of working-age women in the Pacific Islands are employed, primarily due to outdated laws and systemic barriers. With approximately 57% of women – totaling around 500,000 – not participating in the workforce, the report underscores that closing the gender gap could lead to a significant economic boost for the region. By aligning women’s employment levels with those of men, the Pacific’s GDP could increase by 22%, generating higher household incomes and fostering private sector growth.
The report also notes a concerning forecast for regional economic growth, projected to slow to 2.6% in 2025, a drop from 5.5% in 2023. The Women in Tech Fiji initiative and similar projects aim to enhance women’s participation in sectors like digital entrepreneurship, which could unlock enormous potential for economic development. However, barriers such as cultural norms, limited financing options, and inadequate digital literacy persist, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policy reforms to address these challenges.
As the regional economy faces headwinds, the recommendations from previous reports focused on boosting investments in high-potential sectors, including agriculture, sustainable tourism, and the blue economy. These sectors, if leveraged adequately, could not only create jobs but also empower women and improve resilience against economic vulnerabilities.
This critical intersection of gender equality and economic growth presents a hopeful avenue for the Pacific Islands, where inclusive policies could contribute to a more robust, diversified economy, benefitting all segments of society. With ongoing initiatives and a push for necessary reforms, the prospect of a more equitable and prosperous future for Pacific women and communities is within reach.
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