The gender dividend: the peace dividend

As governments and citizens look toward peace, they should look no further than the women in their own communities. Without meaningful participation of women in peace-building and peace processes there are less chances of durable peace. Women as peace-builders are often leaders in recovery and rehabilitation processes as post-conflict nations and regions transition to peace and stability. The importance of women in peace dialogues can’t be overstated.

Part of the peace process in post-conflict nations is the recovery of the economy – i.e. economic stability. Healthy economies support peaceful existences. Therefore governments should again look no further than the vital role women play in driving economic growth. Investing in women can yield a significant gender dividend through three essential means: (1) women as workers; (2) women as consumers; and (3) women as voters.

Women make up the majority of small business owners across the globe, thus narrowing the gap between male and female employment rates. Women often influence up to 80% of buying decisions in a household. And the number of women earning six figure salaries is increasing at double the rate of men. Women can affect economic competitiveness, fiscal health, and sociopolitical stability. Therefore governments that nurture female talent and decision making can become more competitive and can subsequently hasten economic growth. And industries that understand women’s buying preferences and how to market to them as consumers – through employing women in decision making positions – can substantially increase their market share. Women are not a niche market – they are the power players in the market.

The economic gender dividend can be reflected in increased sales, expanded markets, effective recruitment and retention of staff, and a marketing strategy that actually responds to the market. So collectively, the diverse perspectives of men and women and youth and the aged and the disenfranchised and the minorities can lead to more effective economic growth and stability, diversity of leadership, and peace.

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