LIMA, Peru - Peru has made significant strides in increasing female participation in its civil service, aligning with commitments made since the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. A recent report, "Women in the Peruvian Civil Service 2025," by the National Civil Service Authority (Servir), reveals near gender parity in the public sector, with female participation reaching 50.1% in 2023 and 49.3% in 2024.

The report, based on data from the Household Survey (Enaho) and the Administrative Registry Electronic Payroll, highlights the progress made in closing gender gaps in public administration. Notably, women hold a majority (59%) of civil service positions in regional governments. Additionally, significant improvements in salary equality have been observed, with female civil servants under Legislative Decree No. 728 earning 32% more than their male counterparts in 2024.

However, challenges persist. While overall participation is encouraging, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and professional positions. The report indicates a predominance of men in management roles and a 39% female participation rate among professional civil servants, despite over 57.6% of female civil servants having university degrees.

Furthermore, gender pay gaps persist in sectors such as teaching and healthcare. Sexual harassment in the workplace remains a serious concern, with 59 public entities reporting cases in 2024, a significant increase from 16 in 2019.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and challenges. While AI can modernize public management and create more flexible work models, it also risks exacerbating gender disparities. In 2024, only 44% of civil servants trained in AI were women, and women comprise only 33% of researchers in the National Registry of Science, Technology, and Technological Innovation (RENACYT). Algorithmic biases in AI systems could perpetuate existing gender inequalities.

To address these challenges, the report recommends continued implementation of inclusive public policies that promote women's participation in emerging technologies and decision-making roles. Strengthening mechanisms to protect female civil servants from discrimination and sexual harassment is also crucial. Responsible implementation of AI, coupled with equity policies, will be essential for fostering a more efficient, inclusive, and innovative public administration.

Peru's progress in achieving gender parity in the civil service serves as a model for other nations striving to empower women in the public sector. However, sustained efforts are needed to ensure that women have equal opportunities to lead and contribute to the nation's development.