The 2010 global gender gap report by the World Economic Forum shows that countries with better gender equality have faster-growing, more competitive economies.

Michelle Bachelet’s quote, "The 2010 global gender gap report by the World Economic Forum shows that countries with better gender equality have faster-growing, more competitive economies," emphasizes the strong correlation between gender equality and economic development. Bachelet is referencing the findings of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, which assesses the disparity between men and women across various domains, including economic participation, education, health, and political empowerment. The report highlights that nations that prioritize gender equality—by ensuring equal opportunities for women—tend to have more robust, competitive economies with faster growth.

The quote suggests that when both men and women have access to the same opportunities, resources, and rights, the entire society benefits economically. Gender equality leads to a more efficient and inclusive workforce, allowing talent and innovation to flourish across all sectors. Bachelet underscores that gender inclusion isn’t just a matter of social justice but also a practical driver of economic success. By removing barriers that limit women’s participation in the economy, countries unlock the potential of half their population, resulting in higher productivity, more diverse leadership, and ultimately, greater economic competitiveness.

Bachelet’s statement also reflects her broader political views on gender empowerment. As a former president of Chile and a leading advocate for women’s rights, she has long argued that gender equality should be a cornerstone of both social policy and economic strategy. She draws attention to the economic impact of gender parity, encouraging governments worldwide to focus on policies that empower women, whether through education, workforce participation, or political representation.

The origin of this quote lies in the 2010 Global Gender Gap Report, which examined the relationship between gender gaps and national economic performance. The report found that countries with smaller gender gaps—such as Iceland, Finland, and Norway—tended to have higher levels of economic development and innovation. Bachelet, in highlighting these findings, calls for a stronger commitment to gender equality as a means to drive economic progress, not just for the sake of fairness but for the long-term benefit of national economies.