While there is recognition of the potential of ICT as a tool for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women, a gender divide has also been identified, reflected in the lower numbers of women accessing and using ICT compared with men. Unless this gender divide is specifically addressed, there is a risk that ICT may exacerbate existing inequalities between women
and men and create new forms of inequality.
If, however, the gender dimensions of ICTin terms of access and use, capacity-building opportunities, employment and potential for empowerment
are explicitly identified and addressed, ICT can be a powerful catalyst
for political and social empowerment of women, and the promotion
of gender equality.
This report provides a summary of critical gender equality issues related to ICT and development and outlines potential opportunities for womens economic, social and political empowerment.
Key strategies and tools to address the gender digital divide in national and international contexts are presented. Examples of good practice on gender equality and ICT are elaborated throughout the report.
The report focuses on the twofold need to address the gender divide and reduce inequalities related to ICT and to identify ways to use ICT proactively
and effectively to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Women. The Commission identified significant gender differences in levels
of access to, control of and advantages accruing from a wide range of technological developments.It concluded that the information revolution appeared to be by-passing women; that information society literature was silent on gender issues, and that neither research nor practical projects in the information technology field had addressed the specific circumstances of women.
Source:Women Watch.
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