Regional integration promotes inclusive growth and development while reducing poverty and inequality. South Asia is one of the least integrated regions in the world, so implementing regional integration could be an effective development strategy to stimulate productive economic transformations in the region. Regional integration involves multiple dimensions, including trade, politics, social, cultural, and environmental factors. However, most attention has been given to the trade dimension, and it is claimed that trade policies do not consider gender sensitivity.
This study aims to investigate the differential impact of regional integration on men and women in the South Asian region. By exploring the gender dimension of regional integration, policymakers can better ensure that the benefits are shared equally among all individuals in the region.
