Clare Kavanagh shares findings from a recent survey about opinions on gender equality
A new Ipsos B&A poll reveals a complex and evolving landscape of opinions on gender equality in Ireland. While a strong majority believes in the importance of achieving gender equality, a significant generational divide emerges, particularly regarding perceptions of discrimination against men.
The evidence regarding female disadvantage with respect to many aspects in Irish life is clear. The European Commission’s Gender Equality Index, where a score of 100 indicates perfect equality between men and women, reveals we have a long way to go to achieve parity between men and women. The Ireland score is 73.4 exceeding the European average of 71.0.
The current Government cabinet responsible for steering the nation’s course comprises only three women among its 15 members. This disparity is starkly highlighted by the fact that there are as many women in the cabinet as male ministers named ‘Jim/James’.
Ipsos B&A directors Davina O’Donoghue and Clare Kavanagh
And if you are wondering if the glass ceiling still exists for women in Ireland, it is worth noting that just 19 per cent of CEOs in Ireland were female in 2023, albeit the percentage is up from 13 per cent in 2021.
A poll of 501 adults conducted by Ipsos B&A last December highlights a stark gender and generational divide in attitudes towards gender equality. A significant 56 per cent of Irish men agree with the statement: “When it comes to promoting women’s equality, things have gone so far that we are discriminating against men.”
This sentiment is particularly pronounced among Millennial men, with a staggering 63 per cent agreeing with the claim. Twenty nine percent of women also agree. This finding suggests a potential backlash against the progress made in recent decades, with many younger men certainly, feeling increasingly alienated by the push for gender equality.
Treatment
This perception of reverse discrimination is further underscored by the finding that although about twice as many people say they have witnessed men receive favouritism in the workplace as opposed to women, men are marginally more likely to feel they have witnessed women getting better treatment. This discrepancy highlights the subjective nature of perceived discrimination and the need for open dialogue to address these concerns.
Adding another layer to the narrative, the research reveals a yearning for a bygone era among Gen Z men globally. A striking 57 per cent of young men expressed a preference for growing up in the time of their parents, compared to 46 per cent of Gen Z women. This nostalgia suggests a potential disconnect between the realities of modern life and the aspirations of young men, who may be grappling with evolving gender roles and expectations.
Value
Despite these concerning trends, the research is not without its glimmer of hope. Most Irish citizens, 71 per cent, still believe that achieving gender equality is important. This shared value, transcending generational divides, underscores the importance of continuing the dialogue and working towards a more equitable society.
The economic benefits of closing the gender gap can provide some strong motivation for society. Economist Christine Lagarde, the president of the European Central Bank, co-authored a study with Canadian economist, Jonathan Ostry, which calculates that countries ranked in the bottom half for gender inequality could boost their GDP by just over a third if they closed the gender gap.
Also, very strong evidence exists that diverse groups (whether race, nationality, class as well as gender) make better decisions. This is because groups with outsiders ask more questions and have more conflicts and ultimately need to think harder about a problem.
The Ipsos B&A research paints a nuanced picture of attitudes to gender equality in Ireland and highlights:
- The significant challenge for equality campaigners posed by the global, as Irish backlash against equality. There is a significant proportion of the public which feels that equality has gone too far and is now disadvantaging men. A more universal narrative is needed.
- The importance of independent, quality research to keep the pulse of ordinary people outside the media bubble, with respect of this and other sensitive issues, for example ESG, diversity, populism. As we have seen with recent successes for President Donald Trump in the US, and far right parties across Europe, emerging thoughts and ideas can gain momentum quickly.
- There is still hope. The majority still believe that gender equality is important, suggesting that this backlash can be overcome.
Clare Kavanagh is a director of Ipsos B&A; clare.kavanagh@ipsos.com
