Why is equal representation of women and men important in public administration?

Justice - Women make up half of the population and therefore it is their right to have half of all decision-making positions.

Experience - Government action has gender-differentiated impacts because of the differences between women and men in the responsibilities they carry in the household, the type of work they do in the labour market and their access to key resources such as capital, property and credit. Women need to be in positions of influence to bring their experiences and perspectives forward.

Representation - Public administrative bodies are responsible to the public and therefore it is important that these offices are also representative of the public.

Positive model - The employment practices of government are an opportunity to demonstrate to other employers how standards should be implemented. Having equal representation of women and men in the administrative arm of the government is a positive model for all employers.

Full text of Women’s Representation in Public Administration in Viet Nam: factsheetwomenpubadmin20140915en.pdf