The National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia published remarks from Governor Anita Angelovska-Bezhoska in a lecture to students at American College, where she linked trade openness to higher female labour market participation and warned that deglobalisation could materially reduce global output and disproportionately affect women. Citing World Bank findings, she noted that exporting firms employ more women, with women making up around one third of the workforce versus less than one quarter in non-exporting firms, and that women account for 37% of employment in foreign-owned firms and firms participating in global supply chains compared with 25% in firms outside such chains. She also referenced World Economic Forum estimates that, at the current pace, closing the gender gap would take 131 years, and argued for reforms to remove institutional, regulatory and cultural barriers, policies to encourage women’s labour market participation, support for balancing family and work responsibilities, and equal opportunities for career and leadership development; a subsequent discussion covered her career experience and questions on the potential effects of US tariffs on the domestic economy and foreign direct investment.
National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia 2025-04-11
National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia Governor says deglobalisation could cut global GDP by up to 12% and hit women harder
Governor Anita Angelovska-Bezhoska of the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia emphasized the link between trade openness and increased female labor participation, warning that deglobalization could reduce global output and disproportionately affect women. She cited World Bank data showing higher female employment in exporting and foreign-owned firms and advocated for reforms to eliminate barriers and promote gender equality. Her remarks also touched on her career and the potential impact of US tariffs on North Macedonia's economy and foreign direct investment.