Types of Gender Equality: 7 Ways to Foster Equitable Societies

There are different types of gender equality. Overall, gender equality is one of the key indicators that can accelerate economic development. According to McKinsey, gender equality in the United States could increase the country’s economic growth to $4.3 trillion in annual GDP. This can only be accomplished if the country attains full gender equality.

By doing so, women will be empowered enough to maximize their full potential in every aspect of life. This seems like a dream come true. But it is disheartening that even in a developed country like the United States women still have a long way to go.

However, to achieve gender equality we must continue our efforts. In this article, you will learn different types of gender equality that a society can attain.

What is Gender Equality?

Gender equality is a basic human right that fosters economic and sustainable development in societies. Gender equality is a notion that means all human beings, regardless of their cast, color, religion, and income should have equal access to available resources and opportunities.

Resources and opportunities here mean that every person should have an equal right to get education, participate in economic and political activities, and enjoy freedom. The gender of an individual should not be a barrier for personal development.

Along with this, the person living in a society should have all the legal, political, and social rights. He or she should not face any discrimination based on gender.

Types of Gender Equality

1. Gender Equality at Home

Gender quality at home means that members of a family or community are equally treated irrespective of their age, color, disability, or gender. Equality here also refers to the access and use of resources, economic and political freedom, and access to education.

It also states that women and men should have equality in splitting economic responsibilities and household work. All family members should have the right to earn money, have access to health facilities, and are not deprived of taking part in the decision-making process.

2. Gender Equality in Education

Gender parity in education is imperative for individuals’ well-being which leads to just and sustainable societies. According to UNESCO, “Globally, 122 million girls and 128 million boys are out of school. Women still account for almost two-thirds of all adults unable to read.”

The figures show the importance of gender parity in education. This can be achieved if;

1. Education systems are backed by gender-inclusive policies.
2.  Education is equally accessible to all genders.
3. The enrollment rate of boys and girls in primary and secondary education; and the equal ratio of young women and men in tertiary education is increased in the same proportion.
4. Women and men are equally represented as role models in the curriculum and are hired as teachers at equal ratios for all subjects.
5. Subjects are not associated with gender. Such as STEM subjects are usually associated with boys and arts, humanities, and linguistics are related to girls.
6. Teaching practices that promote gender equality for both girls and boys should be adopted.

3. Gender Equality in the Workplace

Gender equality in the workplace is a broad subject where women often face discrimination. Equality here means providing equal opportunities to everyone.

Companies and organizations should be able to provide a just and fair platform to their employees. A place where no one feels left out.

It can be achieved when;

1. There are no biases in the hiring process and mentorship and development opportunities are equally available for all genders.
2. Practices of equal pay for equal work value are prevalent.
3. Occupations and roles are not associated with one gender.
4. Family and caring responsibilities are not the reason for any sort of discrimination.
5. Companies should be encouraged to hire women in leadership roles.

Read more about workplace discrimination in this article: What is Occupational Segregation? Its Types and Examples?

4. Gender Equality in Politics

Gender equality in politics refers to the liberty that women and men have equal opportunity to participate in political activities.

Political participation means that;

1. People from diverse backgrounds have the freedom to raise their voices and express their opinions.
2. Women and men have “freedom of association” and the right to join any political party and trade union.
3. Women and men can actively participate in and run political campaigns.
4. Women and men have equal rights to vote for and stand for local, provincial, and national elections.

5. Gender Equality in Governance

Equal representation and participation of women and men in political activities leads to gender equality in governance. According to the latest figures of April 2024, globally only 27% of women represent national parliaments around the globe.

The presence and active participation of women in the democratic process lead to gender-sensitive policies in society.

This can be achieved when;

1. Women and men equally represent the public offices and public institutions at the local, provincial, and national levels.
2. Women are politically empowered to raise their voices and be part of the decision-making process.
3. Women actively participate in the process of developing strategies, allocating funds, and budgeting.
4. Women and men have equal representation in parliaments and ministries.

6. Gender Equality in Economic Activities

An important factor in achieving gender equality in a country is when women actively participate in economic activities. When gender barriers are dismantled, women are empowered to avail opportunities.  

Equal opportunities lead them to explore and utilize their potential to drive economic growth. To attain this;

1. Social and cultural norms associated with women’s discrimination should be discouraged through fostering gender-equal policies.
2. Women and men should have equal rights and access to resources. Such as the use of land, capital, and access to training and mentorship programs.
3. Gender-responsive policies and programs should be introduced by governments that facilitate women in initiating a venture.
4. Women and men should have equal opportunities to be part of the labor force in a country.

7. Gender Equality in Health

According to an estimate, the absence of maternal healthcare facilities results in the death of 1000 women every day. This is a result of gender inequality and discrimination that women face in different parts of the world.

Lack of appropriate health services has a long-lasting impact on the health and well-being of women. This also has a negative impact on children’s health and the house.

Gender equality in health is crucial for the social and economic development of a home, community, and country. So;

1. Women should have equal rights to visit a doctor and take the prescribed medication.
2. Women and girls should have equal access to health information and health facilities. They should not face any barriers or restrictions on mobility.
3. Women should have the right to take decisions regarding their health.
4. Women and men should equally represent the health workforce.
5. A country’s health system should address the challenges that girls and women face in accessing health facilities.

Concluding Remarks

The types of gender equality discussed above are all important for a country to develop a sustainable society. Women are a valuable source of human capital that can share a broad pool of talent. Ignoring their potential can stall economic progress.

Equal representation of women in all aspects of life boosts innovation and productivity levels. It helps in identifying a problem with effective solutions.

Equality in society lowers the poverty level and declines the crime rate. It is an effective driver for economic progress and improved well-being of individuals.