International Men’s Day 2024
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Sri Lanka’s opening of its first hotel managed by an all-female team brought the attention of the world towards gender representation within hospitality workspaces. Amba Yaalu Kandalama, run by an all-female staff-from top management to maintenance-is a bold initiative given that women only comprise 10% of the country’s tourism workforce.
As we open the conversation about women in tourism and hospitality at large, there is no better time to focus on women’s impact within the sector than International Women’s Day.
Women in tourism: current impact and outlook
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Women currently make up 54% of the global tourism workforce
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In the hotel industry alone, women representation remains between 60-70%
So, where is the gender gap?
According to UN’s Global Report on Women in Tourism, majority of women in tourism work in the informal economy where they earn less and have less job security.
Female workers are underrepresented in leadership roles, currently holding less than 40% of the managerial positions within the sector.
Closing the gender gap–trends and opportunitiesÂ
Hospitality hub
The hospitality remains a hub of opportunities for women, who often dominate roles in accommodation, food and beverage services, and customer relations.
Rise of female travellers
The increasing number of female travellers is reshaping the travel industry. This is creating opportunities for female-run businesses that can cater to female traveller needs and preferences, such as safety, wellness, and personalised experiences.
Sustainable tourism
A 2023 study states that destinations with greater gender equality tend to have more sustainable tourism practices, showing the positive correlation between women empowerment and responsible tourism.
Entrepreneurial spirit
Women are entering entrepreneurship with ventures like boutique hotels, tour operations, and travel agencies, often with a focus on community-based tourism.
Addressing the challenges faced by women
Despite their significant contributions, women in hospitality and tourism continue to face numerous challenges:
- Due to the gender wage gap, women in the industry often earn less than their male counterparts for comparable work which reinforces systemic inequalities.
- Long hours or inflexible schedules, make it challenging for women who juggles family responsibilities and, sometimes motherhood alongside their career.
- Women are often limited to stereotyped roles (i.e: receptionist, server) perpetuating traditional gender roles and discouraging them in leadership positions.
- Many women in the travel and hospitality industries are unaware of their rights, available resources, and opportunities for professional development.
- The lack of mentorship and resources makes it harder for women to acquire the skills and networks needed to advance their careers.
Strategies for women empowerment in hospitality
To create a more gender-inclusive hospitality and tourism sector, it is essential to implement comprehensive diversity, inclusivity and equity strategies for better employee welfare.
1. Addressing stereotypes with policy and advocacy
Industry stakeholders can advocate for policies that promote gender equality and empower women in the workplace while supporting organisations that are working to advance women’s rights in the industry. Challenging gender stereotypes within operations and in marketing and advertising materials, establishing the correct DEI strategies and awareness, addressing gender disparities in wages, and hiring and promotion practices are essential in ensuring workspaces remain safe and healthy and will encourage more women to participate within the industry.
2. Technology utilisation
Technology bridges the opportunity gap for women in tourism, enhancing access to training and mentorship and providing online platforms for them to connect, share resources, and network. Technology tools like mobile apps can also be used to promote women-owned businesses. In addition, effective roster management systems, cloud services that enable remote working, or performance tracking that alleviate biases in promotions and other opportunities will create workplaces that foster employee equality and equity.
3. Education and mentorship
UN Tourism has partnered with UN Women and external partners worldwide to bring gender issues to the forefront of the tourism sector. Similar initiatives, not only at the international level but also at regional and local levels, provide opportunities for women to learn and access equal opportunities within the industry. Scholarships, leadership training, financial literacy, entrepreneurship opportunities and networking opportunities for aspiring professionals are also helpful.
4. Flexible work arrangements
While equality is crucial in the industry, so too is equity; understanding and addressing the needs unique to women. For instance, on-site childcare facilities or childcare subsidies can make it easier for women to return to work after having children. Oftentimes, social responsibilities for women differ from their male counterparts, demanding their attention for other activities such as feeding hours. In such instances, flexible work schedules and remote work options enable women to balance work and family life.
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Accelerate action for an empowered future
Imagine an industry where people are equally represented at all levels—from entry-level positions to C-suite executives—and empowered to reach their full potential, with their unique skills and perspectives creating a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future. As International Women’s Day 2025 urges all to accelerate action for gender equality, industry stakeholders are called to accelerate their commitment to realising the vision of gender equality within the sector.Â
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