In development studies, which concept refers to achieving equal opportunities for men and women across key social and economic domains?

• A. Gender equality
• B. Equity
• C. Gender parity
• D. Social inclusion

Answer: (C)

Equal opportunities for men and women across key social and economic domains means fair access and participation in areas like education, work, income, political life, and decision making. The term gender parity matches this idea by focusing on equal representation or shares of men and women in those domains. Parity provides a clear, measurable target: are the sexes represented in roughly equal numbers and have equal access to opportunities and benefits? That concreteness is why parity often comes up as the best label for “equal opportunities across domains.” Keep in mind, gender equality is the broader aim of removing barriers and ensuring fair outcomes, while parity zeroes in on balancing representation as a key way to achieve that equality.