Integrating Gender in U.S. Trade Policy is the Smart Thing to Do

Though there has been an increase in acknowledgement of the importance of gender in trade, in most cases gender is not integrated in trade policy or agreements, or if it is, the commitments are not binding. When trade and gender equitable outcomes are seen as separate goals, rather than using trade as a tool to foster gender equality and sustainable and inclusive development, not only is it a missed opportunity for growth but it can perpetuate inequalities.

By contrast, the United States’ (U.S.) trade policy has the ability to support gender equality, spur economic growth and create positive returns for U.S. trade. Closing gender equality gaps results in immense economic gains. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has explicitly acknowledged the “key role” women play in economic development and the positive “snowball effect” economically empowering women has on development. Trade policy is also an opportunity to promote women’s rights and labor force participation; this requires effective regulation of trade so that barriers and impacts can be accounted for.

Download the brief below, and learn more about our advocacy in Washington here.