As Working Group members have noted, the private sector has a major role in determining economic equality. If women are to have equal economic opportunities, businesses must make that happen. Some countries, such as the United States, say yes. At both the federal and state levels, there are laws that set aside a percentage of all government contracts for minority or women-owned businesses. Some countries, such as Denmark, have said that they will require business that work with the government to include a minimum number of women in their boards of directors.
Some countries require banks to set aside a minimum number of loans for women-owned businesses.
We look forward to hearing your examples, experiences, and opinions, on this and other issues raised at the beginning of this week. Women-Economy is hosted by WomenWatch, United Nations.