Improving The Mechanism for Increasing The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Increasing Women's Competitiveness in The Labor Market

Abstract

In many developing economies, gender disparities persist in labor market participation, despite policy-level interventions. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have emerged as critical actors in addressing structural and social barriers faced by women, yet their potential remains underutilized. Existing studies often overlook the systemic limitations hindering NGO effectiveness—such as fragmented policy integration, inadequate funding mechanisms, and limited legal representation in decision-making processes. This article aims to analyze and propose improvements to institutional and operational frameworks that can enhance the role of NGOs in increasing women’s competitiveness in the labor market. Findings demonstrate that strategic multi-level policy integration, legal empowerment, localized interventions, and adoption of digital and behavioral innovation models significantly boost NGO effectiveness. Moreover, forming public-private alliances, expanding access to funding, and strengthening monitoring systems are essential for sustainable impact. The research offers a holistic framework by linking macro-level labor policies with micro-level community interventions, incorporating insights from behavioral economics, digital inclusion, and intersectionality. It also proposes specific mechanisms such as data-sharing protocols, inclusive procurement reforms, and early-stage educational programs to strengthen women’s labor readiness. Strengthening NGOs through institutional support and legal recognition can transform them into powerful agents of economic inclusion. Policymakers, development partners, and civil society must collaborate to embed NGOs within national employment strategies to advance gender equity and resilient labor markets.