What is the relationship between gender equality and current economic processes? This report is an analysis of the state of gender equality worldwide, with a focus on the economics of gender equality and development. It provides a conceptual framework that examines the factors that have fostered change and the constraints that have slowed progress in relation to gender equity.

The report uses the economic lens to both understand the gender gap, and explore policy and broader societal interventions. Divided into nine chapters, it draws on an extensive body of background papers, in-house research and publications, and the wider literature on gender inequality. The analysis focuses on the roles of economic growth, households, markets, and institutions in determining gender gaps in education and health, agency, and access to economic opportunities.

Recommendations for domestic policy include: reducing excess female mortality and closing education gaps where they remain, improving access to economic opportunities for women, increasing women's voice and agency in the household and in society, and limiting the reproduction of gender inequality across generations.  The report also advises the international community to compliment these four priority areas and support evidence-based public action through better data, impact evaluation and learning.