Accountants key to inclusive growth through gender-responsive budgeting, ACCA says

Accountants play a “vital role” in contributing to an inclusive society as gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) should be seen by policymakers and governments as a “key tool” for driving inclusive growth and systemic change, according to ACCA. 

In its new research named ‘Gender-responsive budgeting: unlocking the potential’, global accountancy body ACCA drew on the experience of professional accountants and leaders across Eastern Europe, Eurasia and the Middle East.

Co-author of the report, Joe Fitzsimons, senior manager, Policy and insights, ACCA, said: “This report offers critical insights into the strategies and tools that facilitate the effective adoption of GRB across government agencies and state-owned organisations.

“Accountants have a vital role in the application of GRB using their skills and knowledge of data analysis, budgetary techniques and policy advocacy. They can also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of GRB implementation. Governments are increasingly turning to GRB as they pursue more equitable and just societies.”

The report urges policymakers to strengthen institutional capacity, improve data collection, and learn from best practices to implement GRB. It also highlights the need for inter-ministerial collaboration, partnerships, and gender-balanced leadership to ensure effective and inclusive decision-making.

Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March, Jessica Bingham, global sustainability lead – strategy, ACCA, co-author of the report, said: “Incorporating gender considerations into budgetary processes enables governments to ensure that resources are allocated in a way that meets the diverse needs of all. 

“This in turn promotes fairness but also lays the foundations required for sustainable economic growth and social inclusion. Policymakers have an opportunity to embrace GRB and ensure it is a fundamental component of their strategies creating a more equitable future for all.”