Implement gender-responsive tax policies for equality-Experts call

George Winful, Director of the Revenue Policy Division at the Ministry of Finance, has emphasized the importance of adopting gender-responsive fiscal policies and tax measures to foster gender equality, empower women economically, and build an inclusive society.

Speaking at a policy conference on taxation, gender equality, and sustainable development, organized by the Network for Women’s Rights (NETRIGHT) Ghana in collaboration with the Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA), Mr. Winful pointed out that such initiatives could serve as critical tools for policymakers to address gender disparities effectively.

The conference was part of TJNA’s third phase of the Scaling Up Tax Justice (SCUT III) project, aimed at promoting fair, progressive, and gender-equitable tax systems grounded in human rights and pro-poor principles. Under the theme “Taxation for Equity: Exploring Gendered Perspectives in National and International Tax Policies,” the event brought together stakeholders, including policymakers, gender advocates, economists, civil society organizations, and international institutions, to explore pathways to more equitable tax regimes at both national and global levels.

Discussions highlighted the significance of integrating gender perspectives into tax policy development and addressing global tax issues, such as the potential effects of the proposed United Nations (UN) Tax Convention.

ax Policies and Gender Equality

During his presentation on “Taxation and Equity: The Gendered Impact of Fiscal Policies in Ghana and Beyond,” Mr. Winful underscored the role of tax policy in fostering gender equality. He noted that well-structured tax interventions can generate revenue to fund social programs and gender-focused initiatives, helping to close gender gaps in various areas.

He challenged the traditional view of taxation as neutral, advocating for a shift to policies that consider and address gender disparities. While global data shows progress in women’s participation in leadership and politics, he acknowledged that significant inequalities remain, often disproportionately affecting women and girls. Mr. Winful urged governments and businesses to collaborate in advancing equal rights and opportunities for women.

Integrating Gender into Policy Development

Dr. Afisah Zakariah, Chief Director at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, also stressed the need to embed gender considerations in tax policy design and execution. She highlighted the importance of addressing the economic challenges faced by different societal groups, particularly the unpaid care work burden disproportionately carried by women.

Dr. Zakariah called for stakeholder support in implementing the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act 2024, underscoring its critical role in advancing gender parity and contributing to sustainable national development.