Why do most women begin their career journeys on equal footing with men, yet their numbers gradually decline at the executive level? Although the proportion of women in today's workforce is increasing, the pathway to leadership roles remains restricted. This persists despite global research[1] showing that women’s leadership potential is equivalent and in no way inferior to that of men. This reality aligns with the International Women’s Day 2026 theme, “Give to Gain,” which demonstrates that when organizations “give” opportunities and cultivate an inclusive culture that supports equal growth for all genders, they ultimately “gain” high-quality talent, resilient leadership, and long-term sustainable growth in return.

The “Broken Rung” in Women’s Career Paths and the Pathway to Equal Growth

Although women currently account for 40.1%[2] of the global workforce, their chances of advancing to leadership roles decrease by more than one-quarter throughout their career journey. According to the McKinsey Women in the Workplace report, this phenomenon known as the “Broken Rung,” a structural barrier at the start of the career ladder. The report reveals that women are less likely than men to be promoted from entry-level to managerial positions, as they often lack the support or challenging assignments necessary to develop their skills and demonstrate their full potential. These findings clearly indicate that the gap does not stem from women’s capabilities, but rather from the workplace structures and systems themselves. Addressing this “Broken Rung” is therefore a crucial starting point in creating a more equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow.

[1] https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/women-in-the-workplace

[2] https://ilostat.ilo.org/topics/women/