A recent report by Investing in Women Australia sheds light on the persistent challenges faced by women in Asia and the Pacific in joining the workforce, despite advancements in education and healthcare. The average labor force participation rate for women globally remains slightly above 50%, and in Asia, women are on average 70% less likely than men to be in the labor force, with significant country-to-country variations. The disparity is influenced by social norms emphasizing domestic responsibilities for women, limiting their mobility and opportunities for wage growth. Closing the gender gap is projected to bring a 30% increase in per capita income in the region. To address this, policies should focus on specific barriers, promote family-friendly workplaces, enhance female worker security, and provide access to property and credit.