Gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) should be seen by policymakers and governments as a key tool for driving inclusive growth and systemic change. In new research, Gender-responsive budgeting: unlocking the potential, global accountancy body ACCA draws on the experience of professional accountants and leaders across Eastern Europe, Eurasia and the Middle East.

Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, Joe Fitzsimons, senior manager, policy and insights, ACCA, said: ‘This report offers critical insights into the strategies and tools that facilitate the effective adoption of GRB across government agencies and state-owned organisations.’

“Accountants have a vital role in the application of GRB using their skills and knowledge of data analysis, budgetary techniques and policy advocacy. They can also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of GRB implementation. Governments are increasingly turning to GRB as they pursue more equitable and just societies.”

The report recommends policy makers adopt the following to move towards implementing GRB:

• Build institutional capacity and awareness

• Strengthen data collection and analysis

• Learn from best practice and benchmark against peers

• Establish inter-ministerial collaboration and partnerships

• Champion gender-balanced leadership and decision-making.

Jessica Bingham, global sustainability lead – strategy, ACCA, said: “Incorporating gender considerations into budgetary processes enables governments to ensure that resources are allocated in a way that meets the diverse needs of all.

“This in turn promotes fairness but also lays the foundations required for sustainable economic growth and social inclusion. Policymakers have an opportunity to embrace GRB and ensure it is a fundamental component of their strategies creating a more equitable future for all.”

Find out how ACCA promotes gender equality: Watch ACCA’s women president, deputy president and vice-president in conversation with three aspiring ACCA women students as they celebrate IWD by talking about diversity, equality and inclusivity and what they all find inspiring about a career in accountancy.

About ACCA

We are ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), a globally recognised professional accountancy body providing qualifications and advancing standards in accountancy worldwide.

Founded in 1904 to widen access to the accountancy profession, we’ve long championed inclusion and today proudly support a diverse community of over 252,500 members and 526,000 future members in 180 countries.

Our forward-looking qualifications, continuous learning and insights are respected and valued by employers in every sector. They equip individuals with the business and finance expertise and ethical judgment to create, protect, and report the sustainable value delivered by organisations and economies.

Guided by our purpose and values, our ambition is to lead the accountancy profession for a changed world. Partnering with policymakers, standard setters, the donor community, educators and other accountancy bodies, we’re strengthening and building a profession that drives a sustainable future for all.

Find out more at: www.accaglobal.com