The Time Is Now: Policy Actions to Close the Gender Digital Divide

Women’s meaningful participation within the digital economy remains one of the most pivotal ways to achieve the SDGs. Yet despite global efforts, progress remains slow. In low- and middle-income countries, just one-fifth of women have access to the internet compared with one-third of men. The gender digital divide is even more pervasive in rural communities and reflects existing societal gender disparities. Without comprehensive action, this divide will continue to harm women’s rights, livelihoods, and economic opportunities.

This report provides policymakers with key considerations to accelerate the adoption of gender-transformative digital policies. Featuring illustrative examples from across multiple regions, this piece spotlights ‘promising practices’ to learn from diverse approaches taken across the globe. These examples encourage consideration of how such initiatives may be customized to local contexts, and aim to inspire policymakers to take immediate action.

The report offers key considerations for developing gender-transformative policies. It underscores the need for dedicated political will, leadership, committed resources, and cross-sector collaboration to build inclusive digital ecosystems. By adopting gender-transformative policies, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.

The best time to act is now. Governments, private sector leaders, and development partners must take bold, concrete actions to close the gender digital divide. By reaffirming commitments, allocating dedicated resources, and learning from promising practices, we can unlock vast social and economic opportunities for women, and society in general, worldwide.