Women's Empowerment Principles: Benefits and Success Stories

Abstract

Women empowerment (WEP) refers to the process of providing women with the necessary resources and opportunities to exercise their rights, participate in decision-making processes, and have control over their lives. Empowering women has become a significant issue globally, with many organizations and governments recognizing the importance of gender equality in sustainable development. The purpose of this research is to provide an overview of the concept of women's empowerment principles, its evolution, and its importance in achieving sustainable development goals. The WEPs provide companies with a holistic road map to address the challenges women face in the workplace and to promote gender equality across their value chains, in their community engagement. Launched in 2010 by UN Women and UN Global Compact, the WEPs are informed by international labour and human rights standards and grounded in the recognition that businesses have a stake in, and a responsibility for, gender equality and women’s empowerment. The seven Principles constitute a primary vehicle for corporate delivery on gender equality dimensions of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. The investigative object consists in analysis of usage of WEPs by different companies globally, the benefits obtained by women in the work place and best practices to be applied by other companies. Drawing inspiration from successful companies worldwide that have implemented the WEPs can provide valuable examples for businesses in Moldova to become signatories of WEPs as well. These companies serve as role models, showcasing the positive impact that can be achieved through the adoption of WEPs in diverse contexts. By examining the importance of WEPs and its applicability, this research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the principles that can empower women economically and concludes with a reflection on the potential benefits of implementing these principles and their significant contribution to creating a more equitable society. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/cike2023.56; UDC: 331.526-055.22+338.23:342.724(478); JEL: A13, I38, J16, J88