How does the environment affect the Ministry's work?

A: What is happening That impacts women?

B: The impact on outcomes for women

C: The impact on the Ministry

Global trends and drivers

Increased skills and labour market contribution of women in many countries opening opportunities for women. But pressure to retrench women's rights in some countries e.g. reproductive rights. The environment is complex, thrives on connection, speed and knowledge sharing.

Many of the trends are gender neutral and in effort developed countries women are acquiring the skills to participate fully. However the status of women who are poor is in danger of deteriorating as they compete less well in global markets.

The Ministry puts more into international work as UN agreements on women are under threat.

Demographic changes

Demographic change and immigration are altering the racial mix and age profile of the population. The population is ageing, women have children later, the family unit is shrinking, women are more often living in single person/parents households, and the proportion of young Maori or Pacific peoples is increasing.

There are a greater number of older women with safety, health, social and financial needs. It is increasingly evident that some groups of women do well, whilst others fall further behind.

The Ministry must establish networks/ knowledge amongst Maori women, iwi, hapū and whānau and establish relationships with immigrant groups and Pacific peoples. Policy must target to specific groups of women e.g. immigrants, low-earning women.

New Zealand economic and social forces

Our economy appears likely to remain robust in the short/medium term. Women are more in demand in the workforce and creating opportunities for advancement. However tensions between home and paid work are created. Work patterns are changing, and non-standard employment appears to be increasing.

Strong economy opens up employment for women opportunities to change work patterns and workplaces. But women may increase paid work without reduction in unpaid work. Saving is harder for women. Concern about inequities growing.

The Ministry must differentiate between the needs of groups of women targeted policies needed. The Ministry must work with agencies on policies that connect participation, productivity and work-life balance.

New Zealand political environmental

The political debates are on welfare, the value of parenting, and needs-based policies

The overall thrust is on inclusiveness in the economy and this secures a place for women.

The Ministry must demonstrate value in its gender analysis. The Ministry must work with men as well as women.

New Zealand public sector

The public sector is more genuinely collaborative to achieve outcomes. Other agencies are leading substantive implementation work (e.g. the Pay and Employment Equity Unit at the Department of Labour). Growing role of regional and local authorities.

With a whole-of-government approach to outcomes, the needs and contribution of women is more likely to be be addressed by all departments.

The Ministry is well placed to be at the forefront of a whole-of-government approach. Must make relationships and value-add work well.