Impact of Globalization and Institutional Quality on Gender Inequality with Emphasis on Political Equality and Human Capital

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 1. Ph. D Student of Economics, Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Science and Economics, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor of Economics, Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Science and Economics, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Science and Economics, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/ecoj.2025.68618.3448

Abstract

Inequality is one of the most important issues in economic development. Evidence shows that inequality has a direct impact on growth (due to reduced domestic demand), wealth concentration, individuals' economic opportunities, social cohesion, welfare, and crime (due to feelings of social injustice). Therefore, excessive inequality is detrimental to economic development and can also affect the effectiveness of economic development aid. Inequality can exist between individuals, groups, or nations. One type of inequality concerns gender. Gender inequality is an economic and vital issue. For the global economy to flourish, an equal playing field for women and men must be established. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of globalization and institutional quality on gender inequality, with emphasis on the role of political equality and human capital, during the period 2008-2020. This study employs the two-step Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and panel data from selected countries.

The results indicate that the effect of globalization on gender inequality is positive and significant, while the effects of institutional quality, political equality, and human capital on gender inequality are negative and significant. The findings highlight the importance of improving institutional quality and enhancing political equality and human capital in reducing gender inequality and strengthening economic development.

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Main Subjects

References

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Applied Theories of Economics
Volume 12, Issue 4 - Serial Number 47
December 2025
Pages 211-240

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