While some gender gaps have closed many remain -- even in rich countries. Nearly four million women are "missing" each year in developing countries; women are more likely to be unpaid for the work they do; women everywhere tend to earn less than men; violence against women remains prevalent and in most countries women participate less in formal politics. The challenges are real, the need to act immense. Steps must be made to address the root causes of gender gaps, eliminate gender disadvantage and limit the reproduction of gender inequality across generations. The challenges and nature of the task ahead are the focus of the discussion. .
