The role of education and skills in bridging the digital gender divide: Evidence from APEC economies

Without the right policies, obstacles that women have encountered – and continue to face – in the analogue world are likely to grow exponentially in the digital future. The barriers to gender equality are numerous and diverse. Some are deeply rooted in the past, while others are unique to the digital world. Hurdles to access and affordability, inherent biases and sociocultural norms, coupled with lack of educational opportunities and skills, among others, curtail women’s ability to fully benefit from the digital transformation. However, these barriers are in no way insurmountable. In addition to identifying some of the main obstacles that women face in the digital world, this report shows how policy interventions can help pave the way to greater gender inclusion, with a focus on the fundamental role of education and training in bridging the (digital) gender divide.