The World Bank Group
2,712,684 followers
March 2, 2026
New Women, Business and the Law data show where reform falls short.
Dear reader,
What if the world could boost global output by 15 to 20% simply by removing barriers that hold women back from full economic participation? Our new Women, Business and the Law 2026 report draws on data from 190 economies—including those that have implemented significant reforms—to highlight gaps in enforcement that limit women’s opportunities. Our experts’ analysis shows that lowering the obstacles for women in the workplace can generate real economic results.
In this issue, we also examine:
- How the use of AI in professional settings is widening the digital divide—and which early investments in digital infrastructure can make a difference.
- The connection between declining fertility rates and fiscal policies, and implications for the future workforce.
- A grocery chain in Uzbekistan that is using technology to strengthen local supply chains and food security.
- IDA’s far-reaching results—including strengthening social safety nets for 122+ million people—and the priorities shaping its next replenishment.
Boost Global Output 15 to 20% by Including Women. Although many countries have passed reforms to support women in the workforce, our new Women, Business and the Law report finds that only about half of all laws and reforms are effectively enforced—limiting women’s access to pay, assets, entrepreneurship, childcare, and workplace protections.
HIGHLIGHTS
Who’s Using AI—and Who’s Being Left Behind? AI is reshaping labor markets. But new research shows that workers in high-income countries use AI far more than everyone else. Find out why early investments in digital infrastructure, skills development, and enabling policy environments are critical to ensuring opportunities for all.
A New Ingredient in Uzbekistan’s Grocery Market: Competition. A modern grocery chain in Uzbekistan is bringing people safer food at stable prices. Behind the scenes, it’s also strengthening supply chains, creating jobs, and connecting farmers to bigger markets—all while boosting food security and shaping a more efficient, inclusive retail sector.
Can Interest Rates Influence Fertility? Fertility rates have fallen to historic lows, reshaping labor markets and shrinking long-term growth potential. One expert asks: Could monetary policies be influencing fertility—and what does that mean for economic development?
IDA By the Numbers: Delivering Impact at Scale. With $97.4 billion in financing, the International Development Association (IDA) has expanded social safety nets to 122 million people and strengthened support for nearly 200 million people in fragile settings. As it marks its 20th replenishment, IDA is poised to deliver even greater results.
WATCH AND LISTEN
Laws Holding Women Back Hurt the Global Economy. Women still have only two-thirds of the economic rights of men worldwide. New data in our Women, Business and the Law report provides policymakers with a foundation for enacting reform and guides them on how to unlock economic growth, boost productivity, strengthen inclusion, and drive sustainable development.
