Proposal of a Gender Balance Index: An instrument for Enhancing Equality in Corporate Management Structures

Abstract

Abstract The persistent underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles across various levels of management within companies is a critical issue that has garnered significant attention in both academic and professional circles. Despite numerous legislative efforts and policy initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in the workplace, women continue to face substantial barriers to accessing leadership positions. These challenges are not confined to specific sectors or company sizes; they are pervasive, affecting organizations worldwide. This paper proposes a novel instrument designed to measure women's participation in decision-making across all levels of management in a company. The versatility of this tool allows for its application across a broad spectrum of industries and organizational structures, making it a valuable asset for any company committed to advancing gender equality within its ranks. The proposed instrument seeks to address a gap in the current methodologies used to assess gender diversity and inclusion in leadership roles. By providing a comprehensive framework for evaluating women's representation in decision-making positions, this tool not only highlights areas where disparities exist but also facilitates the tracking of progress over time. Its implementation can serve as a cornerstone for developing targeted strategies aimed at eliminating barriers to women's advancement and fostering a more inclusive corporate culture. In contributing to the amelioration of women's situation regarding access to decision-making in companies, this instrument aligns with broader efforts to achieve gender equality. It not only aids companies in complying with legal requirements and societal expectations but also enhances their competitiveness and innovation by leveraging the full potential of a diverse workforce. Through its widespread adoption, this tool has the potential to catalyze significant shifts in how companies approach gender diversity and inclusion, marking a critical step towards the equitable representation of women in leadership across the corporate landscape.