Gender Equality, Economic Growth and Poverty in Cote d'Ivoire: A Quantitative Analysis

Abstract

In this paper, we develop a three-period gender-based Overlapping Generations (OLG) model of economic growth for Cote d'Ivoire by endogenizing life expectancy and linking growth and poverty. We then calibrate the model using the country-specific data to illustrate the role of public policies in the model, and its implications for long-term growth, gender equality, and poverty in Cote d'Ivoire. To this end, we discuss three sets of quantitative experiments: broad-based development policies (increase in education spending and infrastructure investment, and governance reform), gender-based policies (reduction in gender bias in the market place, increase in women's bargaining power, and reduction in family bias against girls' education), and a composite reform program (combination of pro-growth, pro-gender policies). Overall, our findings suggest that Cote d'Ivoire could achieve better growth and poverty outcomes if the country could implement a composite reform program that includes comprehensive development and gender-based policies.