Global report says women still suffer from inequality

The latest World Inequality Report 2026 (WIR 2026) says that gender inequality is still prevalent throughout the world, although some geographic regions are less affected than others.

The WIR 2026 is the third four annual report since its inception in 2018. Its aim is to gather global information about different criteria that define the world in the 21^st century and then to make recommendations about how inequalities can be reduced. The themes include the study of gender disparities, inequalities in the distribution of wealth and the asymmetry of the world’s financial system and more.

One aspect revealed is that on average women worldwide earn only 32% of what men earn per hour

One aspect revealed is that on average women worldwide earn only 32% of what men earn per hour. Gender pay inequality is notably worse if invisible unpaid labour is considered which is mainly undertaken by women. These kinds of disparities shape lifetime opportunities which can perpetuate year after year with no escape for women locked into them.  

Woman with daughter in Sub-Saharan Africa

It was found that women continue to work more and earn less than men. Women work on average 53 hours per week compared to 43 for men. Disproportionate responsibilities restrict women’s career opportunities, slow their wealth accumulation and limit their political participation which might influence change to improve their circumstances. Gender inequality leads to structural inefficiencies and economies which undervalue half the population undermines the capacity for societies to grow economically.

WIR 2026 identified progressive taxation and redistribution of wealth is one solution for gender and other inequalities in the world

WIR 2026 identified progressive taxation and redistribution of wealth is one solution for gender and other inequalities in the world. Reducing inequality is a political choice but fragmented electorates, under representation of workers and the influence of the wealthy, contribute to a lack of concerted power to change things.

The situation could also be improved with a range of policies. Public investment in education and health is one of the most important agents of change in narrowing gaps. Investment in free school education and universal healthcare can alter lifetime disparities and could build more inclusive and resilient societies.

Affordable childcare, economic help for women caregivers, and enforcement of equal pay for women gender gaps is another way to level the playing field of the gender gap in wealth.

Inequality is the result of policies, institutions and structures of governance.

Inequality is the result of policies, institutions and structures of governance. If redistribution of wealth is strong, taxation is fair and social investment is well funded, the inequality in society narrows. We need to convince our politicians that shared prosperity is in their interest too and not just for their electorate.

By our society correspondent