In the past, ISO has used this day to highlight the remarkable women that are making an impact as leaders and experts in the world of standardization, which traditionally has been male-dominated. These inspiring stories show us that great strides have been made, but there is still room for progress.
A few years ago, hundreds of experts from around the world came together under the ISO umbrella to discuss and agree on what social responsibility involves. This was not a long shot at an idealistic dream. The standard was developed by stakeholders representing industry, government, academia, NGOs, and more, who persevered until they could come up with what they believed were realistic and practical guidelines for organizations. This is how ISO 26000 was born, of which gender equality was an important part.
According to ISO 26000, a positive link exists between gender parity and economic and social development. That is why gender equality is one of the UN's Millennium Development Goals. Inversely, discrimination has a negative impact on individuals, families, communities and societies, limiting their potential. Gender equality is therefore a cornerstone of social responsibility. To eliminate bias and promote parity, organizations must ensure:
- A good mix of men and women in governing structures and management
- Equal treatment in recruitment, job assignment, training, opportunities and compensation
- Equal remuneration for work of equal value
- Equal consideration of the needs of both men and women in decisions and activities (for example by reviewing how company communications portray gender)
- Equal consideration of the different needs of men and women in the workplace and in aspects of community safety and health
- Equal benefits from advocacy and community development projects, with particular emphasis on redressing areas where gender equality is lacking
The good news is that change is in the air. A growing number of women and men around the world are speaking out against inequality. This is a positive sign as the first step is recognizing that there is a problem. But it is 2014 – the time for recognition is long past and it's time to take action. It’s possible to create a world where women and men have equal opportunities if we choose to make it happen.
Happy International Women's Day!
