One of the biggest challenges in building an inclusive digital economy is the lack of gender-disaggregated data. Without accurate data, it's impossible to design effective policies or measure progress.
Bangladesh needs to prioritize the collection and analysis of gender-disaggregated data in all aspects of the digital economy. This data should be used to inform policy decisions and track progress towards gender equality.
Gender inclusivity in the digital economy is not just a moral imperative; it's an economic one. The private sector’s role cannot be ignored -- it's not just about corporate social responsibility, it's about smart business. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusivity are more likely to outperform their peers.
Tech companies in Bangladesh need to step up and lead by example. This means not just hiring more women, but ensuring that they have a seat at the table where decisions are made.
It also means creating products and services that cater to the needs of women. For example, developing mobile apps that are user-friendly for women with low literacy levels.
Policy plays a critical role in shaping the digital economy. Governments need to go beyond rhetoric and implement policies that promote gender inclusivity in the digital space. The government needs to ensure that policies aimed at promoting digital literacy and access are designed with a gender lens.
International organizations like the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, and the United Nations also have a critical role to play in promoting gender inclusivity in the digital economy and help provide a framework for policymakers, practitioners, and businesses to design and implement digital solutions that are gender-inclusive. However, such guidelines need to be tailored to the specific context of each country, including Bangladesh.
As we move towards a more digital economy, the nature of work is changing. The rise of remote work, the gig economy, and automation are all reshaping the labour market. While these trends offer new opportunities, they also pose new risks, particularly for women.
Women are more likely to be employed in sectors that are vulnerable to automation, such as retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. At the same time, they are underrepresented in the tech sector, where most of the new jobs are being created.
To ensure that women are not left behind in the future of work, Bangladesh needs to invest in reskilling and upskilling programs targeted at women. This includes not just technical skills, but also soft skills like leadership and negotiation, which are crucial for career advancement.
Let's not forget about the future generations. These digital natives are growing up in a world where technology is as ubiquitous as oxygen. But just because they're comfortable with technology doesn't mean they're immune to the gender biases that permeate the digital economy.
There's a common misconception that just because someone is born into a digital world, they automatically know how to navigate it. But digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use Instagram filters or play Roblox. It's about understanding how to leverage technology for economic empowerment.
In Bangladesh, while mobile phone ownership among young people is high, there's a significant gender gap in digital literacy. According to a 2023 report by the GSMA, girls in Bangladesh are 15% less likely than boys to be digitally literate. This gap starts at a young age and widens as girls grow older, limiting their opportunities to participate in the digital economy.
Gen Z and Gen A are the social media generations. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are not just for entertainment but can be powerful tools for change. We've seen how social media can be used to raise awareness about social issues, from climate change to gender equality.
But it can also be a double-edged sword. On one hand, social media has given a voice to millions of women around the world, allowing them to share their stories, connect with others, and advocate for change.
On the other hand, it has also exposed them to new forms of harassment and discrimination. To harness the power of social media for good, we need to educate young people on how to use these platforms responsibly.
This includes understanding the impact of algorithms, recognizing misinformation, and knowing how to protect their privacy online.
As we stand on the cusp of the fourth industrial revolution, one thing is clear: The future of the digital economy is inextricably linked to gender equality. A more inclusive digital economy means more innovation, more economic growth, and more opportunities for all.
Bangladesh has the potential to be a leader in this space, but it needs to act fast. The country has already proven that it can defy the odds. Now, it's time to defy the odds once again and build a digital economy that is truly inclusive.
Educate girls and women to be digital leaders, legislate policies that promote gender inclusivity, and innovate products and services that cater to the needs of all.
In the immortal words of Beyoncé, who runs the world? Girls. But only if they are given the tools to do so.
Galib Nakib Rahman is an engineer-turned-finance-expert-ESG-enthusiast. Email: galibnakibrahman@gmail.com.