Innovation or social progress? An analysis of the predictors for worldwide advancement of gender equality

Abstract

This paper aims to verify the relationship between innovation and social progress for the advancement of gender equality on a global level. Secondary data were collected on the Global Innovation Index (GII), the Social Progress Index (SPI), and the Global Gender Equality Index (GGGI) for the years 2020 and 2021. In the quantitative analysis, the multiple linear regression model was used in the open-source software R Studio. The results highlighted that social progress positively and significantly affects gender equality, although no correlation was found between it and innovation. By providing a comprehensive framework for evaluating factors related to closing the global gender gap, this study catalyzes increased public awareness of the issue and an important source of information for policymakers and stakeholders.