Are you part of the solution?
I often speak about the empowerment of women because inequality persists worldwide. Although progress has been made, much work remains.
The other day, I had a discussion with some friends about the status of women in Switzerland. To my surprise, they believed there was no discrimination. This left me speechless for a moment, especially considering they have wives and children. My husband could share numerous examples of systemic failures and imbalances impacting women's lives and careers.
Switzerland consistently scores poorly on international equality rankings (some facts and obstacles are listed at the end of this article). Instead of focusing on these issues, I want to discuss our behaviors and how we can be part of the solution.
This is where my encounter with my friends comes in and where things went wrong. Rather than being curious to learn more, they relied on their experiences as men, talking about their practices at work and at home.
“We certainly pay equal salaries”, “My daughter has no trouble standing up for herself”, or “I’ve never favored a man over a woman when recruiting”.
Don’t get me wrong, I do not doubt their sincerity. The problem was their inability to acknowledge my reality and the broader systemic issues.
This reaction is common; when confronted with discrimination, people often become defensive instead of listening and learning.
The conversation made me wonder... Friendships provide space for tough conversations, and I value genuine sharing. However, not feeling seen or heard was hurtful. If a talk with friends is that draining, how can you stand up for yourself in front of people you barely know?
That's why you'll find below some practical tips that foster a safe space and nurture belonging. Changing a system or society is overwhelming, but we can have a positive impact as individuals on others around us.
I refer to the gender gap, but the following actions are applicable to addressing all forms of discrimination (age, race, nationality, status, etc.):
Listen and do not interrupt: Ensure you understand what has been said.
Be curious and learn: Ask questions rather than assume.
Show respect: Value their experience.
Create a safe environment: Encourage women to share.
Check in: Ask how you can support them.
Challenge yourself: Reflect on whether you’d say the same to a man.
Get feedback: Assess if your actions show bias.
Speak up: Address discrimination when you see it.
Give people room to speak: Ensure women have opportunities to contribute.
Take a stand: Make your allyship known.
Sincerely apologize: Own up if you have insulted someone.
Just to be clear: These inputs aren't just for men – they're for everyone. Listen, share your experience, speak up, and look out for each other.
By examining your environment more deeply, you may find it less inclusive than you assumed. That’s exactly where you can make a change and have an impact.
Are you ready to become a more inclusive and supportive person, leader, parent, partner, colleague, or friend?
How do you elevate the women around you? Please comment or send me a PM, I look forward to learning from your sharing.
Keep shining, Yvonne
Facts and obstacles for women in Switzerland:
Are working conditions getting any better for women? The Economist’s “glass-ceiling index” offers some clues. Each year, they crunch the numbers on ten indicators – from labor-force participation and salaries to paid parental leave and political representation – for 29 members of the OECD, a club of mostly rich countries. Out of 29 countries, Switzerland ranked 26 this year.
Inequal Pay: Women earn, on average, 18% or CHF 1500 less per month than men. Around half of this difference can be explained by objective factors such as education or sector. The remaining difference is still unexplained and may constitute pay discrimination. **
Discriminatory Company Cultures: Women face unequal opportunities during hiring, especially if they have children or are of "pregnancy age". Similar issues occur with promotions and the lack of flexible working arrangements for everyone.
Lack of Childcare Structure: Infant and child care are often unavailable or unaffordable. The public school system starts at around age 5, with inadequate support for off-hours like lunch or school vacations.
Mental Health: Mothers are criticized or even shamed regardless of their choice to work, stay home, or balance both.
Traditional Mindset: Raising a child is still primarily seen as a mother's responsibility, while fathers are praised for "being more involved".
** Source: Equal pay published in August 2023 by the Federal Statistical Office FSO, Switzerland
