Eugenie Bouchard of Canada acknowledges spectators after winning her women's singles match against Angelique Kerber of Germany at the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris June 1, 2014. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes
IN PHOTO: Eugenie Bouchard of Canada acknowledges spectators after winning her women's singles match against Angelique Kerber of Germany at the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris June 1, 2014. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

In the digital age where many of the world power are already embracing gender equality, Canada remains to be on the few that is still in the process of ingesting the idea that women, too, are equally capable as men. Rosenzweig & Company reports that this year, 8.5 percent of Canadians who hold executive officer’s positions are women. The figure—45 women— accounts for a 0.8 percent increase from last year’s 7.7.

“For our 10th Rosenzweig Report, we are approaching 10 percent, but as a nation, we are not yet there yet. We were hoping for a 10 at 10 headline for our tenth annual report; we got close,” says the executive summary.

Despite the meagre rate, Rosenzweig is optimistic about the slow yet constant progress in promoting gender equality in Canada, particularly in Canadian business and can further the cause around the world.

“It is similar to the butterfly effect where the flapping of wings in far-off places can impact weather patterns on the other side of the world,” Jay Rosenzweig, the company’s managing partner, wrote.

Although there are several external events which gave optimism in the company’s goal, Jay cited the Ontario Securities Commission to be a huge factor. The Commission issued new rules requiring companies listed on Toronto Stock Exchange to reveal the number of women who are on the senior executive positions and on the board of directors.

In a 2014 World Economic Forum gender equality report for example, Canada ranks 19th of 142 countries plagued by gender inequalities. Its ranking has improved from 2006’s 20th. The same report placed Australia at 24th, although efforts have been increased in diminishing the cultured-rooted problem. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that as of 2012, 2.4 percent of Top 500 ASX companies have women as the chief executive officers, while 12.3 percent are on the board of directors.

Gender inequalities are not just a one-nation problem. It is an affliction that recognises no economic status. It is widespread in the extremes as both the first and developing world— countries share in the guilt.

For comments or feedback on the article, please contact the writer at selivak@ibtimes.com.au.

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