This paper explores how gender inequality undermines global progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with emphasis on SDG 5 (Gender Equality). Despite international commitments, women remain disproportionately excluded from economic opportunities, leadership, and access to finance and this exclusion impairs global economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development.
A multidisciplinary qualitative analysis was undertaken using reports and economic studies from institutions such as UN Women, World Bank, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN). Comparative data across Africa, Asia, and Europe were used to assess gender disparities, especially regarding financial inclusion and institutional reform.
Key barriers include systemic financial exclusion, cultural norms (e.g., early marriage, workplace discrimination), and policy failures. Gender lens investing (GLI) has shown promise, increasing six-fold between 2017 and 2021, but scale remains insufficient.
The paper offers evidence-based recommendations for governments, financial institutions, and international bodies, emphasising economic empowerment, legal reform, and gender-transformative strategies.
Primarily qualitative, based on secondary data. Future work should incorporate country-level studies and primary data.
Integrated gender policies, GLI expansion, and inclusive institutional practices are essential to achieving the SDGs. Without full gender inclusion, sustainable development will remain out of reach.
Elneil, S. (2025): No Women, No SDGs: Addressing Gender Inequality for Sustainable Development. World Journal of Women and Sustainable Development (WJWSD), Vol. 1, No. 1, pp.29-42.
