What share of the world’s women are in the labor force?
As of 2025, female labor force participation is 55.1%: 56% in 1990 → 55.1% in 2025.
Why it changed
The rate has recovered from its pandemic-era low (52% in 2020). At the same time, over 35 years, women’s labor force participation has barely moved: 55% today versus 56% in 1990, even as education and economies changed dramatically over the same span.
Source · World Bank Gender Data Portal (ILO modelled estimates) CC BY-4.0 (World Bank) Last reviewed 2026-07-25
See one like this every morning.
Progress Tab replaces your new tab with one sourced number about the world. You guess first, then see the real number.
Add to Chrome Free · no account · opens on every new tabAlso available for Firefox →Common questions
What is the source for this number?
World Bank Gender Data Portal (ILO modelled estimates). Last reviewed 2026-07-25 — CC BY-4.0 (World Bank).
How has this changed since 1990?
56% in 1990 → 55.1% in 2025. As of 2025, female labor force participation stands at 55.1%.
What still isn’t solved?
Over 35 years, women’s labor force participation has barely moved: 55% today versus 56% in 1990, even as education and economies changed dramatically over the same span.