Gender and Social Exclusion

There are groups of people in all societies who are systematically disadvantaged because they are discriminated against.

Men, women and children who are discriminated against often end up excluded from society, the economy and political participation. They are more likely to be poor. They are more likely to be denied access to income, assets and services.

These people suffer from social exclusion - and poverty reduction is harder as a result. Poverty reduction policies often fail to reach socially excluded groups unless they are specifically designed to do so.

Ensuring women's equal rights to property and access to resources are critical in the fight against poverty. Educated girls have better opportunities to earn higher wages, participate in community life and decision-making and are better informed about health risks that may be relevant to both themselves and their families, such as HIV/AIDS.

They also tend to marry later, have fewer, healthier, better-nourished children and are more likely to send their own children to school.

Reducing gender disparities in the labour market is essential for increasing the economic security of women. It increases their capacity to participate in the national and global economy, and benefits their country's prospects for economic development and growth.