Report reviews laws affecting women’s economic inclusion

What the study found: The report reviews laws and regulations affecting women’s economic inclusion in 190 economies. It uses the Women, Business and the Law Index, which is built from eight indicators covering women’s interactions with the law as they begin, progress through, and end their careers.
Why the authors say this matters: The study suggests that examining legal gender equality alongside women’s economic decisions can help build evidence about women’s economic inclusion. The authors conclude that the report contributes to research and policy discussions about women’s economic opportunities and empowerment.
What the researchers tested: The report updates all indicators as of September 1, 2019. It analyzes eight areas of the law: Mobility, Workplace, Pay, Marriage, Parenthood, Entrepreneurship, Assets, and Pension.
What worked and what didn't: The report says it builds evidence around links between legal gender equality and women’s economic inclusion. It also notes the pace of reforms over the past two years and states that progress has been made, while much work remains to ensure economic empowerment for all.
What to keep in mind: The abstract does not provide detailed country-level results, statistical estimates, or specific limitations. It also does not describe the underlying data sources or analytic methods in detail.

Key points

• The report analyzes laws and regulations affecting women’s economic inclusion in 190 economies.
• The Women, Business and the Law Index includes eight indicators: Mobility, Workplace, Pay, Marriage, Parenthood, Entrepreneurship, Assets, and Pension.
• All indicators were updated as of September 1, 2019.
• The authors say the report contributes to research and policy discussions on women’s economic opportunities and empowerment.
• The abstract says progress has been made, but more work remains.