On October 10, the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) participated in the 1st International Gender Webinar, organized by Argentina’s Supreme Audit Institution within the framework of the Latin American and Caribbean Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (OLACEFS). Representing the Court, Marcela Timóteo, coordinator of the Committee on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, delivered a presentation titled "Gender and Work: The Situation in Latin America – A Brazilian Perspective," addressing the challenges and progress in promoting equity in Brazil.  

The data presented during the webinar reveal the realities faced by Brazilian women in the labor market. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), only 54.7% of white women and 52.2% of Black women participate in the workforce, a significantly lower rate than that of white men (73.1%) and Black men (73.3%). This gap cannot be separated from the structural barriers women face in accessing and remaining in the labor market, such as the burden of unpaid domestic and care work.

Gender inequality in Brazil extends beyond workforce participation and is evident in wages as well. Women earn, on average, 27% less than men—a disparity that worsens when considering racial factors. Black women are the most affected, with earnings significantly lower than those of both men and white women. In 2022, white workers earned, on average, 64% more than Black workers. "Only 39.3% of leadership positions are held by women, and two out of three are white women. When we talk about gender, the racial perspective is fundamental to understanding that the problem is even deeper," noted Marcela.

TCU’s Efforts Against Gender Inequality

In 2023, the Court established the Directorate for Equity and Human Rights Policies, aimed at integrating an equity perspective in the assessment of public policies. In March 2024, it launched a strategy to incorporate equity, including a gender perspective, into its audits. Among the initiatives underway, Marcela Timóteo highlighted the policy of reserving 8% of outsourcing contracts for women in vulnerable situations, such as victims of domestic violence. "This is an important step to support the reintegration of these women into the labor market," she emphasized.

Additionally, TCU has adhered to the Gender Equality Seal of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which seeks to recognize and encourage public institutions that promote gender equality in their activities and management.