How does gender inequality in education and labor force participation affect Afghanistan’s economic growth?

Abstract This study examines the effect of gender inequality in education and labor force participation on Afghanistan’s economic growth. Using time-series data from 2000 to 2022 and applying the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the results reveal that gender inequality in both employment and education significantly hinders economic growth. Particularly, a 1% increase in gender inequality in education leads to a 9.039% decline in economic growth, while a similar increase in labor force participation inequality results in a 16.67% reduction. These findings highlight the essential role of women’s full participation in education and the workforce as a key driver of economic growth. Policy recommendations emphasize expanding educational opportunities through scholarships and distance learning programs for girls and women, creating employment initiatives to enhance women’s participation in the labor market, and fostering national and international collaboration to drive political and structural reforms aimed at restoring gender equality. The study ultimately concludes that addressing gender inequality is not only a matter of human rights but also an economic necessity for Afghanistan’s long-term stability and development. Ensuring equal access to education and employment for women is imperative for fostering inclusive economic growth and breaking the cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.