There has been a notable increase in the representation of women in managerial positions globally. According to data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), several countries have made significant strides in promoting gender equality in the workplace.
Among the top countries with the highest share of female managers, five are from Africa: Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Botswana, Zambia, and Jordan (which, though geographically in the Middle East, is often included in discussions of African socio-economic dynamics due to its regional influences).
Africa had an overall share of 38% female managers 2022, which rose to 40% in low-income countries. This represented an increase of about 2 percentage points during the pandemic, as the Covid-19 outbreak drove more women into necessity-driven independent work.
In Eastern Europe, the share of female managers was almost 42%, while North America had around 40%, Southeast Asia approximately 39%, and Northern Europe about 38%. In contrast, the MENA region had the lowest share of female managers, at just over 15%.
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According to ILO, here are the top countries with the highest share of female managers (2023 or 2022)
1. Burkina Faso — 69.9%
Burkina Faso stands out as a remarkable example with an impressive 69.9% of managerial positions held by women. This West African nation has seen substantial improvements in gender parity, driven by strong policy frameworks that encourage female participation in leadership roles. Government initiatives and non-governmental organizations have been instrumental in providing women with the necessary skills and opportunities to succeed in management.
2. Nigeria — 67.5%
Nigeria follows closely with 67.5% of managers being women. This achievement is significant in a country with deep-rooted cultural norms that traditionally favour male leadership. Nigeria’s progress can be attributed to a combination of legislative reforms, advocacy by women’s groups, and increasing access to education for girls. The corporate sector has also played a crucial role, with many companies adopting diversity and inclusion policies.
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3. Jamaica — 59.9%
Jamaica, with 59.9% of managerial roles occupied by women, exemplifies the Caribbean’s commitment to gender equality. The nation’s success is linked to its robust educational system, which ensures high female enrollment and graduation rates. Furthermore, Jamaican women have a strong presence in both the public and private sectors, supported by government policies that promote gender parity.
4. Botswana — 51.9%
In Botswana, 51.9% of managerial positions are held by women, showcasing the country’s dedication to fostering female leadership. Botswana’s achievements are rooted in its progressive gender policies and the active involvement of women in economic development. The government’s support for female entrepreneurs and leaders has been pivotal in this regard.
5. Philippines — 48.6%
The Philippines, where women hold 48.6% of managerial roles, stands out in Southeast Asia. The country’s labour market is characterized by high female participation rates, partly due to a strong emphasis on education and professional development for women. The Philippines has implemented various gender equality laws and policies that support women’s advancement in the workplace. However, issues such as the gender wage gap and underrepresentation in senior leadership positions indicate that more work is needed to achieve full gender equality.
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6. Saint Lucia — 47.7%
In Saint Lucia, 47.7% of managers are women, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality. Educational attainment among women is high, and there are significant efforts to promote female leadership in various sectors. Government and non-governmental organizations have been active in creating programs that support women’s professional growth. While these initiatives are commendable, Saint Lucia continues to face challenges related to cultural norms and economic barriers that affect women’s career advancement.
7. Jordan — 47.5%
Jordan, with 47.5% of female managers, demonstrates that progress is possible even in regions with strong patriarchal traditions. The Jordanian government has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in the workforce, including education reforms and workplace equality policies. Despite these efforts, cultural and societal barriers remain significant obstacles to further advancement. Ensuring sustained progress will require continued focus on changing societal attitudes and improving economic opportunities for women.
8. Zambia — 46.9%
Zambia, where women constitute 46.9% of managers, has made notable strides in gender equality in management. The country has benefited from policies aimed at empowering women through education and professional training. The Zambian government’s commitment to gender parity has been crucial in supporting women to climb the corporate ladder. However, ongoing efforts are needed to address challenges such as gender-based violence and limited access to finance for women entrepreneurs.
