Women continue to experience discrimination, as well as wage and career inequality in the workplace.
Moreover, they are vulnerable to harassment and sexual violence. Therefore, efforts are needed to empower women, involve them in decision-making, and strengthen gender equality.
This was discussed during the 12th Gadjah Mada International Conference of Economics and Business (GAMAICEB) held on Thursday (Sep. 26) at the Alana Palagan Hotel in Yogyakarta.
The annual conference, organized by UGM’s Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB UGM), aimed to provide a deeper understanding of current economic and business issues.
The conference’s theme was “Inclusivity and Diversity in Economics, Business, and Accounting: Beyond Borders.“ It featured three speakers: Professor Poppy Ismalina from UN Women Indonesia, Professor Renato Pereira from ISCTE Business School Portugal, and Associate Professor Jengfang Chen from Macquarie University, Australia.
In her presentation, Professor Ismalina stated that women still face inequality and discrimination in the workplace, including wage disparities, limited participation of women at the executive level, and sexual harassment.
“These issues stem from disempowerment, violence, double burdens, and discrimination against women,” said the FEB UGM economist.
To address this, Professor Ismalina emphasized the need to empower women, starting in the market sector and moving to the broader community.
Women’s empowerment can begin by providing leadership opportunities for women, ensuring the health and well-being of all employees, and involving women in decision-making processes.
“Strengthening gender equality does not mean discriminating against one side,” Professor Ismalina added.
Echoing Professor Ismalina’s sentiments, Chen presented her research on gender inequality in accounting and auditing firms.
This inequality includes unfair wages, the absence of women in executive positions, and gender disparities in workloads. The significant gender gap in the accounting and auditing industry is particularly concerning.
“Women are less likely to be promoted in the accounting industry,” the associate professor said.
Professor Pereira then discussed inclusivity through impact-driven entrepreneurship.
The concept of impact-driven entrepreneurship focuses on creating positive change for the entrepreneurs and the communities in which they operate, enhancing inclusivity, diversity, and overall economic and societal development.
“Companies should establish fair and appropriate regulations for their employees,” Professor Pereira noted.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photo: FEB UGM