Dr. Shumaila Yousafzai, alongside colleagues from Durham University and Teesside University, has contributed a groundbreaking research paper to the "International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research." The publication, titled "Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps: The Influence of Entrepreneurship Policies on Women’s Entry into Entrepreneurship," offers a comprehensive analysis of how entrepreneurship policies interact with gender equality both formally and informally to affect women’s inclination towards self-employment.
This study is particularly notable for its methodological approach, employing a multi-level model that integrates perspectives from symbolic interactionism, institutional theory, and the intricacies of gendered institutions. By leveraging data from 66 countries, the research explores how these institutional arrangements either hinder or promote environments conducive to women’s entrepreneurial activities
.The findings underscore the complex impact of specific entrepreneurship policies across different national contexts. While these policies are often designed to bridge the gendered resource gap, the study reveals that a deeper understanding of underlying gender dynamics is essential for creating truly inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems.
This publication not only adds significant value to academic discourse but also offers practical insights for policymakers seeking to enhance women’s participation in entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the necessity of a more integrated approach to support women’s socio-economic advancement through entrepreneurship, highlighting the role of nuanced policy interventions in fostering a more equitable business landscape.
