Does representation of women in parliament promote economic growth? Considering evidence from Europe and Central Asia

Introduction The relationship between gender equality and economic growth has attracted considerable attention in scholarly research. While existing literature evaluated the significance of inequality education employment, impact disparity public service on remains an under examined area inquiry. main aim this study is to assess effect female empowerment Europe Central Asia (ECA). To best our knowledge, first analysis political at a regional level. Methods We rely several econometric techniques obtain robust empirical results resolve various problems encountered when using panel data. start with random fixed effects model baseline results. generates unbiased estimates by reducing time omitted variables. core technique used twostep system GMM estimator. Results suggest that participation parliament positive significant progress. In particular, 10%-point increase women's representation leads 0.74%-point GDP growth. Discussion Thus, it essential further promote programmes developing countries continue adopt new measures aimed increasing women service. Future studies could explore subnational levels test whether moderates financial development, innovation, trade