Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also a catalyst for economic and social progress.

Around the world, efforts to level the playing field in the workplace have gained momentum, yet deep inequalities persist. For countries like Sierra Leone, the challenge is even more complex, shaped by traditional norms, limited resources, and legal barriers.

Across the globe, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and high-paying industries. According to UN Women’s Gender Snapshot 2023, the world is far off track in achieving gender equality by 2030.

Structural issues such as wage gaps, unequal maternity policies, and a lack of female leadership continue to hinder progress. For instance, women make up only 12.5% of portfolio managers worldwide, and this number has stagnated for years. In the UK, despite improved boardroom diversity, only a small fraction of executive roles are held by women due to barriers like childcare costs and career breaks for motherhood.

In Sierra Leone, the picture is equally concerning. While women make up nearly half of the population, their presence in formal employment and leadership is minimal. Traditional gender roles, early marriage, and limited access to quality education disproportionately affect women and girls. Legal and institutional structures often fail to protect their rights or create pathways for career advancement.

Recent reforms, such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Policy and the 30% quota for women in public office, have begun to shift the landscape. However, implementation remains inconsistent, and cultural attitudes continue to limit real change.

The economic benefits of gender equality are undeniable. Research from Goldman Sachs and the World Bank shows that companies and countries that invest in gender diversity enjoy better performance, innovation, and growth. Empowering women to access equal career opportunities leads to stronger communities and more resilient economies.

For Sierra Leone, meaningful progress will depend on investing in girls’ education, enforcing gender-sensitive labor laws, and challenging social norms that restrict women’s potential. Globally, governments, businesses, and communities must work together to dismantle the structural barriers that limit women’s professional growth.

Gender equality is not a women’s issue alone-it is a shared goal that, when achieved, benefits everyone.