Encouraging Gender Diversity in the Workplace

Promoting gender diversity in the workplace has become a crucial focus for many organisations in Pakistan despite the challenges that persist in this area. With a low ranking on the gender gap index and stagnant female labour force participation, forward-thinking companies are actively working towards a more inclusive workforce that prioritises gender equality and empowers women.

Recognising the vast benefits of having a diverse team, these organisations are not only aligning with global research that proves higher profitability in companies with women in executive positions but are also obeying regulatory requirements that demand transparency in gender-segregated data on recruitment, retention, and promotions. The increased attention to gender diversity signals a positive shift towards a more inclusive corporate environment in Pakistan.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’, calls for action to advance women’s and girls’ rights, promote gender equality, and empower them. From a business perspective, this requires addressing internal systemic barriers that may hinder women from entering or remaining in the workforce, making it essential for businesses to take specific steps to enhance women’s employment and boost gender diversity within their organisations.

Setting a strong business case for gender diversity is crucial for gaining corporate support and resources, demonstrating to leadership the positive impact enhancing gender diversity can have on business performance, employee support, and community relations. This is further evidenced by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) highlighting the importance of gender diversity in corporate governance.

Establishing gender targets, conducting gender assessments, obtaining gender-segregated data, aligning policies through a gender lens, celebrating successes, championing women’s employment, and advocating for gender policies are all crucial steps that companies can take to promote gender diversity in their organisations. These steps involve setting targets, evaluating current practices, collecting data, developing policies, recognising accomplishments, engaging with the community, and advocating for gender-inclusive policies at the national level.

In doing so, companies can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce, positioning themselves as leaders in gender equality and empowerment. By actively supporting and promoting women in the workplace, organisations can move towards a more equitable future where gender diversity is not only accepted but celebrated as a key component of successful businesses.