Empowering Women and Unpacking Gender Disparities in SAARC Countries: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

This article examines gender equality and progress patterns of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member countries, focusing on the impact of inclusiveness on sustainable social growth and economic development. The South Asian region ranks the highest in the global gender gap index (GGI), with only 62.3% of the gender gap closed in 2022, according to the World Economic Forum. Thus, there is a dire need to understand and address the gender disparity and marginalization of women. This lack of progress extends the wait to close the gender gap to 197 years due to a broad stagnation in gender gap scores across most regional countries. This study critically examines the existing research, policies, and practices of gender equality in SAARC countries and summarizes significant challenges in the implementation. The findings indicate a slow but growing outlook regarding the increasing attention towards bridging the gender gap. However, achieving gender equality in these economies remains a significant challenge that requires further efforts. This study not only focuses on analyzing theoretical aspects of gender equality in the region but also highlights prospects of gender equality for SAARC. Lastly, the study recommends practical and realistic execution steps for policymakers to implement to foster an inclusive and prosperous social and economic environment in the region.