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Ban on gender discrimination in employment

What this indicator measures

The law is examined on two points: it prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sex (or requires equal treatment), and this prohibition is not limited to a single aspect such as pay or dismissal. Data from the 2026 edition of “Women, Business and the Law”, which describes written laws in force on 1 October 2025 (not their actual enforcement or uncodified customs).

How to read this?

“Prohibited” means both conditions are met.

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186countries with data
2025data year(s)

In brief

Ban on gender discrimination in employment: 186 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: Discrimination prohibited by law : 157 ; No complete prohibition : 29.

Why this indicator matters

A written ban on discrimination protects access to employment and career progression. Comparing it shows whether the law covers the different stages of the employment relationship or only some of them.

What makes this indicator vary

Laws depend on the history of labor law, ratified international conventions and the role of unions and courts. Some legislation has been completed in stages, while others remain partial.

Reading precautions

The indicator looks at the text of the law, not actual inspections or penalties. “No complete prohibition” may hide partial protections. Customs and employer practices are not measured.

Ban on gender discrimination in employment

Discrimination prohibited by law (157)

No complete prohibition (29)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "Ban on gender discrimination in employment" data come from?

It comes from Banque mondiale – Women, Business and the Law (WBL 2.0). Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

What does “discrimination prohibited” mean here?

The law prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sex, or requires equal treatment, and this rule is not limited to a single aspect such as pay or dismissal.

Does an existing law guarantee equality?

No. A law sets a rule, but its effect depends on inspections, remedies and practice. The indicator only measures the existence and scope of the text.

Source and update

Source : Banque mondiale – Women, Business and the Law (WBL 2.0). Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Women's rights