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In South Asia, only 1 in 3 women are in the workforce, compared to 3 out of 4 men. Millions of women are not getting the chance to realize their potential—to work, earn an income, and contribute to their families, communities and economy. Even when they work, women often earn less than men and hold jobs without benefits and protections.

We call on all stakeholders to #ClearHerPath so that more women can thrive in the workforce.

#ClearHerPath Internship Competition 2025

Contest: What will it take to #ClearHerPath to economic opportunities? New World Bank competition calls on young nationals of South Asian countries, aged 18-25, to submit their best ideas for a chance to win a World Bank internship.

Watch: International Women’s Day 2025: A Spotlight on India

Women leaders, changemakers, and achievers celebrated the progress women have made in India and explored solutions to unlock further opportunities.

Blog: More and better jobs: Unlocking the potential of South Asia’s women

Women in South Asia have made strides in education and health but to unlock women's economic opportunities, more needs to be done to boost women's access to jobs and productive assets.

Blog: Improving mobility and jobs for women: The case of Karachi

Safe transport can improve access to jobs for women. A bus line in Karachi is not only improving safety for women commuters, it's also creating jobs for women.

Blog: Empower to prosper: Women, jobs, and growth in South Asia

Closing gender gaps is important to equity, but also critical for growth. Blog explores how creating employment opportunities for women can boost prosperity for South Asia

Meet the women who are blazing a trail in South Asia’s workforce

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SAR-GIL

South Asia Gender Innovation Lab

Since 2015, the Gender Innovation Lab has produced cutting-edge research on female labor force participation and gender-based violence. Starting in 2019, we are expanding our impact evaluation portfolio and directing efforts to turn evidence into action.
YT-BBinSL A woman's Journey to the top

Talking Development: Kasturi Wilson

World Bank Managing Director Anna Bjerde talks to Kasturi Wilson, first woman CEO of Hemas Holdings PLC in Sri Lanka, about how closing the gender gap can contribute to economic growth.
Women in SAR textile

Report: Reshaping Social Norms About Gender

To reshape its economy, South Asia must take action to challenge existing gender norms and give women more economic opportunities.
women in school

Engendering Access to STEM Education and Careers in South Asia

Investments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can accelerate development in South Asia—especially if they foster opportunities for women.

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