International Women's Day 2026: Top Countries with Highest Female Workforce Participation

• Female labor force participation (FLFP) is a key metric for economic conditions and gender equality, measuring women aged 15-64 who are employed or actively seeking work.
• ILO data reveals high FLFP rates in both very rich and very poor countries, with lower participation observed in middle-income nations.
• North Korea tops the global list with 87% female workforce participation, driven by government initiatives promoting gender equality and employment.
• Other top countries include Solomon Islands, Madagascar, and Iceland (all 84%), with diverse drivers ranging from agriculture and informal sectors to strong policy support and parental leave.
• Nations like Netherlands, Sweden, Nigeria, Burundi, Estonia, Switzerland, and New Zealand also exhibit high FLFP, supported by progressive policies, gender equality laws, or significant roles in agriculture and small businesses.