Equality on whose terms? A feminist analysis of the JIBS editorial on gender and international business

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the Journal of International Business Studies (JIBS) editorial’s approach to gender inequality and to argue for a radical rethinking of international business research through an intersectional anti-capitalist feminist perspective. The paper contends that, while the editorial seeks to advance gender research, it does not fully engage with feminism as a transformative political project. To develop this argument, the paper first examines the editorial’s theoretical foundations, including modernisation theory, gender essentialism, and the evaluative-equality framework, highlighting their potential depoliticising effects. It then analyses how feminist terminology is mobilised in ways that may dilute its critical significance. Finally, it proposes directions for more transformative feminist approaches to international business research. Design/methodology/approach This paper offers a critical feminist response to JIBS editorial “Evolving Patterns of Gender Inequality over Time and Across Countries.” Findings Drawing on feminist scholars, this critique argues that progress requires transforming systems, not just including women. It advocates integrating feminist political economy and decolonial perspectives into international business research. By highlighting how depoliticised concepts reinforce patriarchal norms, it calls for a shift from reducing equality to inclusion within existing systems towards transformative, structural change, offering a framework grounded in intersectional and decolonial feminist theory. Originality/value Since JIBS significantly shapes future scholarship, this critique is vital. It reframes feminist theory as a transformative political project rather than a mere managerial tool, challenging depoliticised research to demand a radical engagement with power, patriarchy and political economy.