China's Gender Gap: Exploring Drivers and Impacts on the Economy

Economic growth is considered a key driver of human development worldwide. China, the world's second-largest economy by nominal GDP, has experienced impressive economic growth in recent decades. However, despite this growth, the country ranks very low on gender equality indices. According to the World Economic Forum's Gender Gap Report 2022, China ranks 102th out of 146 countries. This is a significant drop from its ranking of 63rd in 2006. This thesis aims to explore the drivers of China's gender gap and its impact on the economy. The study will examine the international debate on gender inequality and compare it with the Chinese one, focusing particularly on the role of women's unpaid care work. The thesis will also contain reflections on feminist movements in Chinese civil society and their effect on the public policies related to women’s rights.