Women’s leadership in listed companies is increasing: study

Bangladesh still leads the South Asian region in terms of female leadership in listed companies, according to a new study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE).

The new figures show there has been an increase in the percentage of women independent directors of listed companies from 5% in 2020 to 6% despite the impact of Covid-19, which has disproportionately affected women, the report said. ‘IFC in a press release. on Sunday.

“A 2020 IFC-DSE study showed at the time that approximately 18% of directors of listed companies were women, which remained the same. In terms of women on the boards of listed companies, the Bangladesh still tops the South Asia region,” he said. .

The results were revealed at an event marking International Women’s Day. IFC, DSE, UN Women and the UN Global Compact organized the program.

IFC partnered with DSE, UN Women and the UN Global Compact for the seventh consecutive year to “ring the bell for gender equality”.

While emphasizing the role of women in building a more equal future, the annual event also highlights how greater participation of women in the economy can drive sustainable and inclusive growth.

Speaking at the event, Nathalie Chuard, Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh, said: “As Bangladesh begins its graduation from LDC status, ensuring gender equality is all the more essential for a transition that leaves no one behind”.

“As a committed and long-standing bilateral partner, Switzerland attaches particular importance to gender equality and social inclusion in all its engagements in Bangladesh,” Chuard said.

Tarique Amin Bhuiyan, Managing Director of DSE, said that DSE remains committed to closing the gender gap and promoting the role of women in leadership, especially in listed companies.

“Promoting the role of women in business will not only create a more diverse management team, but will also help private sector companies create value, bring in new ideas, enhance transparency and promote inclusive growth. .”

Meanwhile, in a new joint report titled “How Stock Exchanges Can Advance Gender Equality: Updated Guidance and Best Practices,” the United Nations Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) initiative and the IFC identify three major areas where scholarships can play a role in promoting gender equality, the press release said.

“Investing in women’s economic empowerment is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do, as it paves the direct path to gender equality, poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth” said Gitanjali Singh, head of UN Women Bangladesh office. .