Globalisation and Gender Inequality: Is Africa Different?

Using cross-sectional data (5-year averages), ordinary least-squares and three-stage least squares estimations, this paper examines the effects of globalisation and growth on gender inequality (inequality in literacy) and tries to investigate whether the effects are homogenous across developing countries. In particular, we explore whether the effects of increased trade openness and growth on gender inequality in Africa are different from those in other developing countries. The empirical evidence indicates that globalisation and growth seem to have no effect on gender equality in non-SSA developing countries. However, we find overwhelming statistical evidence that higher integration in world markets and growth cause gender inequality in SSA to increase. The findings in this article suggest that it is extremely important that socioeconomic policies that promote the welfare of women (and, in particular, enhance female literacy) accompany trade reforms and growth-promoting policies. Copyright 2007, Oxford University Press.