Gender Equality
About this Program
We have transformed thousands of lives through evidence-based programs that focus on expanding women’s economic opportunities, increasing women’s rights and security, and advancing women’s political participation.
On this page
Program Outcomes
How We Work
Increasing women’s economic opportunities
Through education, entrepreneurship, vocational training, and scholarships we equip women with the knowledge and skills to earn an income and break into higher-paid employment sectors.
In the workplace, we address constraints faced by women entrepreneurs, providing networking opportunities, mentoring, access to information and credit, and business management training. Working alongside local partners we foster environments where women can advocate for improved policies.
Women’s rights and security
We work with individuals and communities to change norms that perpetuate gender-based violence and the exploitation of women and girls.
We engage government and civil society to strengthen laws, legal systems, and other response mechanisms to increase access to justice and improve service delivery. A leader in the fight against human trafficking, The Asia Foundation has pioneered initiatives to combat trafficking in nearly a dozen source, transit, and destination countries.
Promoting women’s participation in political and public life
We empower women to engage in political processes, and equip women to be informed voters, active members of political parties, and successful candidates.
Working with local governments and partners we advance women’s rights and strengthen legal systems to reform policies that discriminate.
Program Highlights
Recent Publications
Striving Digitally: Understanding the Challenges of Malaysian Women Entrepreneurs
Women’s Voice and Leadership Sri Lanka Approach Notes
Strengthening Care Economies in Asia and the Pacific
Upcoming Events
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November 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Young Lotus Circle Soiree
The Young Lotus Circle is a dynamic group of young professionals dedicated to advancing The Asia Foundation’s programs in women’s empowerment and gender equality. After…
Lotus Circle
The Lotus Circle is a vibrant community of committed individuals and organizations supporting our Women’s Empowerment program to strengthen economic, social, and political rights and opportunities for women and girls in Asia. By joining the Lotus Circle, with an annual gift of $1000 or more, you can help transform the lives of women and girls across Asia.
AsiaFoundation70
This year, we celebrate 70 years of improving lives and expanding opportunities.