Experts Explain: Why does the gender gap persist?

Women in the economy means growth. Women in the economy mean wealth. Women in the economy mean jobs. Despite decades of progress, men remain far more likely than women to hold positions of political, social, and economic power. The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Report shows that full parity remains 123 years away. We spoke with three experts in government, diplomacy and economics on why the gender gap, even in the 21st century, persists. A key takeaway? Laws alone won’t work. Real equality must be lived. In this new #ExpertsExplain, we spoke to Rania A. Al‑Mashat, François Valérian, and Arancha González Laya about why progress has stalled - and how equality is not a cultural battle, but an economic imperative. Closing the gender gap could raise global GDP by 20% Transparency and data are “the best disinfectant.” Equality is the key to stronger economies and authentic leadership