Closing the Gap, Opening Growth: Gender Wage Equality and Its Impact on Sustainable Economic Progress

Author(s)	Ms. Nikhita Singh
Country	India
Abstract	This paper explores the relationship between gender equality (SDG 5) and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. While gender equality is often regarded as a social or ethical imperative, it also has profound economic implications. The study highlights how closing gender gaps in education, labour force participation, and wages contributes to higher productivity, greater innovation, and long-term poverty reduction. Drawing on global data and case studies, it examines the barriers that continue to restrict women’s economic opportunities, including wage inequality, unpaid care work, and cultural constraints. The analysis concludes that empowering women is not only a moral necessity but also a strategic economic choice, reinforcing the argument that sustainable development requires the integration of gender equality into economic planning.
Keywords	Gender Equality, Productivity, Gender-Inclusive Policies, Women Empowerment, Decent Work, Economic Growth, Wage Gap, Labour Force Participation, Inclusive Development, Sustainable Development
Field	Sociology > Economics
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 4, July-August 2026
Published On	2026-08-12

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