Gender Equality and Economic Development: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Gender equality has become a key pillar in advancing inclusive and sustainable economic development across nations. This systematic literature review synthesizes findings from several peer-reviewed studies published over the last five years, focusing on the economic impacts of gender parity in education, employment, and leadership. The review reveals a consistent positive relationship between gender equality and improved economic outcomes such as GDP growth, poverty reduction, and human capital development. Key themes include the macroeconomic benefits of female labor participation, the economic returns on investment in girls’ education, and the role of gender-sensitive policies in fostering resilient economies. However, structural barriers such as discriminatory norms, legal inequalities, and weak institutional enforcement continue to impede progress. The review concludes that meaningful advancement requires context-specific, actionable policies backed by political will and institutional capacity. Gender equality is not merely a social goal but a strategic economic imperative for long-term national prosperity.