Gender inequality: policy responses to employment and education in BRICS countries

Abstract

This study assesses gender inequality in education and employment in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) countries between the 2000 and 2021, using data from the World Bank database. A descriptive data analysis was carried out as well as graphical representations to compare among countries. The results showed that that female education achieved significant success, especially at secondary and tertiary levels, through specific policies including financial support and affirmative actions. Brazil and Russia maintained an increasingly higher enrollment at the secondary level of education. In contrast, China recorded very rapid growth in tertiary enrollments, reaching over 92% enrolment of females. History, poverty, and social pressures were identified as systemic barriers in the enrollment of girls to school in India and South Africa. This study indicate that even when gains are achieved on the educational front, translating them into gains in terms of equality in employment proves difficult. Secondly, the unemployment rates among females in countries such as Brazil and South Africa are higher, reflecting more significant socio-economic problems. This calls for more vigorous policy responses toward gender inequality within the labour market through labour reforms, job creation policies, and specific support to women's employment in the informal sector in the BRICS countries.