A new United Nations study has found that women in developing countries are bearing the brunt of rising debt burdens, exacerbating gender inequality and threatening progress on poverty reduction. The research, conducted by UN Women and the UN Development Programme, highlights how austerity measures and debt repayments are disproportionately impacting women and girls.
Key Findings
The report shows that countries with high debt levels have cut spending on essential services like education and healthcare, which directly affects women and girls. In many cases, women are forced to take on unpaid care work when public services are reduced, limiting their ability to work and earn income. The study also found that debt crises lead to increased rates of child marriage and gender-based violence.
Impact on Education
Budget cuts in education have resulted in lower school enrollment for girls, particularly in secondary education. Families facing economic hardship often prioritize boys' education over girls', perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.
Healthcare Access
Reduced healthcare spending means fewer maternal health services, leading to higher maternal mortality rates. Women also face barriers to reproductive health services, including family planning.
Call for Action
The UN is urging international financial institutions to consider gender-sensitive debt relief and to ensure that austerity measures do not disproportionately affect women. The report calls for investments in social protection systems and policies that promote women's economic empowerment.
"Debt is not gender-neutral," said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous. "We must ensure that the burden of debt repayment does not fall on the shoulders of women and girls who are already the most vulnerable."
The study comes ahead of the UN Financing for Development Forum, where debt restructuring and sustainable development will be key topics.
