A majority of women worldwide believe they are underpaid, revealing the need for stronger women’s empowerment and gender equality in workplaces, according to a new report by global job search and employment platform Indeed.
The survey of more than 14,500 women in 11 countries found that 56 percent feel they earn less than they deserve, while only 27 percent believe gender-based inequalities will ever disappear.
The findings highlight that even after years of progress, gender gaps remain wide. Though 41 percent of respondents are optimistic about change in the next five years, true parity still feels distant.
The report, “Breaking Down Barriers for Women at Work,” urges employers and governments to take coordinated steps to strengthen women’s empowerment and promote gender equality to close the divide.
Pay Transparency Gains Global Momentum
Women see pay transparency and clear reward systems as key to achieving gender equality. About 72 percent of respondents cited transparent promotion and reward policies as the best solution. Another 71 percent supported both pay transparency and legislation requiring pay equity.
Regional differences emerged. In Europe, women favored legal reforms, while in India, most preferred structured, skill-based hiring assessments.
Transparency is already influencing global hiring. Indeed said that 86 percent of new job postings on its platform now include salary details. The move aims to reduce pay gaps and promote fairer compensation.
Career Growth Remains Uneven
Only 31 percent of women said they were satisfied with their promotion prospects. In contrast, 57 percent rated training and development as vital when evaluating job opportunities. The report recommends that companies adopt structured career planning and provide mentorship.
Indeed suggests that employers create “stretch” or lateral roles to help women gain new skills and advance faster in their careers. These measures, the report said, support retention and help close advancement gaps.
Stronger women empowerment initiatives also enhance workplace gender equality by ensuring that career growth is not limited by bias or lack of opportunity.
Wellbeing and Inclusion Need More Attention
Mental health emerged as a key concern. The report calls for healthier workplaces that protect and promote employee wellbeing.
It advises employers to set clear health and safety guidelines, offer mental health resources, and help staff disconnect after work hours. As digital work expands, maintaining boundaries has become critical to prevent burnout.
Inclusion is another area where progress lags. About 40 percent of women reported that their employers have not introduced any initiatives to foster a sense of belonging.
Indeed recommends setting up women’s task forces, mentorship programs, and unconscious bias training to address this issue. These steps help build workplaces where women feel respected and valued.
Despite the hurdles, optimism remains strong. Nearly two in five women expect to see more female leaders in the next five years. Yet, the report concludes that achieving true women’s empowerment and gender equality will require ongoing action from employers, industries and governments to ensure fair pay, career equality, and inclusive workplaces for women everywhere.
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