The Economist's World in 2011 notes that overall economic opportunities for women still lag those of men.
Women, on average, earn 75% of their male co-workers’ wages, and the difference cannot be explained solely by schooling or experience. In many countries, women have fewer educational and employment opportunities than men, are more often denied credit, and endure social restrictions that limit their chances for advancement. In some developing countries women still cannot vote, own property or venture outside the home without a male family member.
To gain a better understanding of the factors that influence women’s economic opportunity, the Economist Intelligence Unit is piloting a Women's Economic Opportunity Index, the first of its kind.
