A new study by the World Bank Group found that only 4% of women worldwide live in countries where laws offer close to full gender equality and are properly enforced.
The report, titled Women, Business and the Law, shows that although many governments have introduced legislation to promote equal economic opportunities, enforcement remains weak. On average, laws supporting women’s participation in the economy are implemented at just about half their intended strength.
Even when fully applied, women would still have access to only about two-thirds of the legal rights available to men.
For the first time, the study assessed not only what is written in law but also how effectively those laws are carried out.
The findings reveal that while countries score an average of 67 out of 100 for the quality of their gender equality laws, enforcement significantly lowers that score, with systems needed to make those rights work rated even lower.
The News Chronicle understands that the enforcement gap poses a broader economic risk, especially for developing nations seeking growth.
Weak protection frameworks, limited childcare support, and poor safeguards against violence continue to restrict women’s full economic participation.
The report identifies safety as a major barrier, noting that without protection at home, at work, and in public spaces, genuine equality remains out of reach. Policymakers are now being urged to move beyond legislation and focus on meaningful implementation.
