This publication explores the impact of parity within the civil service on public administration performance. The main finding to emerge from the paper is that there is a correlation between women’s equal participation in public administration and the improvement of certain basic services (sanitation, education, electricity and healthcare). While correlation does not necessarily mean causality, this is a significant finding that highlights the importance of women’s public service participation and leadership for improved development outcomes, including a more effective and responsive government.

The research was led by UNDP and McKinsey & Company and builds on the landmark McKinsey report: The Power of Parity.