Top 8 countries where men outnumber women in the workforce

Despite significant strides towards gender equality, women continue to face numerous barriers that hinder their full participation in the labour market.

These disparities manifest in various forms, including unequal pay, limited access to leadership positions, and higher rates of informal employment.

According to a World Bank report, in some countries, men significantly outnumber women in employment. The figures are rounded and derived from the 2023 estimates by the International Labour Organisation.

Here are the top 8 countries where this gender gap is most present:

Afghanistan faces one of the most significant gender disparities in the workforce globally due to the ongoing conflict, cultural norms, and economic instability. Currently, the labour force participation rate for women in Afghanistan is only 5%, compared to 100% for men.

Iraq

Women in Iraq are predominantly employed in sectors such as education, healthcare, and public administration. However, these sectors often do not offer the same financial or career advancement opportunities as those dominated by men, such as construction, manufacturing, and higher-level management. As of 2023, the labour force participation rate for women in Iraq is only 11%, compared to 92% for men.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, traditional gender roles and limited access to education for women contribute to a significant gender gap in employment. Men are more employed, especially in formal sectors. As to recent estimates, only about 25% of Pakistani women participate in the labour force, compared to 81% of men.

Oman

Oman, like many countries, faces significant gender disparities in its workforce. Despite progress in various sectors, the gap between male and female labour force participation remains wide. As of 2023, the labour force participation rate for women in Oman is 32%, compared to 88% for men. This stark difference highlights the challenges women face in entering and remaining in the workforce.

Iran

While Iran has made strides in improving gender equality, significant challenges remain in closing the workforce gender gap. The labour force participation rate for women in Iran is only 14%, compared to 71% for men as of 2023.

Yemen

Yemen has one of the largest gender gaps in the workforce. Cultural norms and ongoing conflict severely limit women's participation in the labour market, resulting in a workforce dominated by men. As of recent estimates, the labour force participation rate for women in Yemen is only 5%, compared to 60% for men.

Egypt

Egypt has a substantial gender gap in employment, with men dominating the workforce. Factors such as social norms, limited childcare options, and workplace discrimination contribute to this disparity. Only about 17% of working-age women participate in the economy, compared to 71% of men.

Algeria

In Algeria, men significantly outnumber women in the workforce. As of 2023, the labour force participation rate for women in Algeria is 17%, compared to 67% for men. This stark contrast highlights the challenges women face in entering and remaining in the workforce.