Higher education institutions (HEIs) are incubators for the thought leaders and social leaders of the future. HEIs and systems where norms for gender equality are practised and modelled, and where the voices and ideas of women are valued and raised up, are powerful tools for accelerating progress towards the equality and empowerment of women and girls everywhere.

However, evidence shows that gender equality issues impact and are reflected in higher education (HE) systems worldwide – with unequal access to HE in many countries, fewer resources and opportunities available to women, the existence of violence against women affecting students and staff, and sustained underrepresentation of women in leadership positions in HEIs. Despite women succeeding academically, it is more challenging for women to succeed in their careers both within and outside academia following their studies. 

There is a critical need to address gender inequalities in higher education – requiring concerted efforts from governments, higher education oversight and funding bodies, HEIs and other partners. Action is required to transform discriminatory gender norms – such as unequal domestic burdens falling upon women and bias in assessment, recruitment and promotion – as well as to address the practical barriers that disproportionately affect women because of their place in society.

Our report provides an in-depth analysis of how gender inequality is reflected, reinforced and challenged in higher education worldwide. It examines relevant legal and policy frameworks and statistical data, as well as summarising academic research on the extent and consequences of gender inequalities in HE and the evidence for effective practice from research and programme implementation.

 A compendium of global resources and data sources, illustrated by 17 in-depth case studies and with suggestions for evaluating and monitoring progress, is provided. Recommendations are grouped into 12 thematic areas.