Why Championing Women Abroad Is Everyone's Win

Living abroad isn't just a move – it's a life-changing adventure filled with growth, cultural immersion, and endless possibilities. But for women taking the leap, there are hurdles unique to their journey that can profoundly impact their experiences.  

So, what are these challenges, and how do we overcome them? And most importantly, why should we bother?  

Let's dive in together and discover why championing more international women isn't just good for them – it's a win-win for us all.  

First off, what drives women to move abroad? 

The reasons are as varied as the women themselves: 

• For some, it's all about personal growth – craving the richness of different cultures and the adventures that come with living in a foreign land. 
• Others prioritize safety and stability, or they're chasing economic opportunities for a better quality of life and financial freedom. 
• And of course, love often takes the spotlight, with many women drawn to the idea of building a life together with a partner in a whole new country. 

What challenges do female expats face? 

Well, while many women proactively seek an expat life, it's important to acknowledge that a more significant number find themselves in it somewhat involuntarily. It's still mostly women who put their careers on hold to accompany their partners overseas. 

Now, imagine navigating a new country and culture – it's a daunting task for anyone. But for the expat partner, it can be even tougher: they're the ones making more sacrifices, usually with less support, and often struggling with not being an equal partner in the relationship anymore. 

But even for women who actively seek out international opportunities, gender inequality persists. Despite efforts to promote diversity, recent data from 2023 shows that only 14% of employees on international assignments are women. Moreover, studies indicate that nearly two-thirds of men (62%) have seen a salary increase since becoming expats, compared to just half (53%) of women. 

Sure, the numbers may vary depending on the industry and location, but the bottom line remains clear: we still have a long way to go to achieve equality. 

Why should we care about having more international women? 

Addressing gender disparity in the global workforce is not just about doing the right thing; it's about setting ourselves up for success in a rapidly changing world. 

Think of it as gaining an edge, both for companies and society as a whole. When we embrace diversity, including not just women but all sorts of underrepresented groups, we're better equipped to adapt and thrive.  

Plus, let's not overlook the fact that women often bring some crucial skills to the table – like empathy and a knack for building strong relationships – thanks to the roles they've traditionally taken on for so long. It's like having a superpower we're not fully using! 

And here's another thing: since international experience is often a stepping stone to reach top executive positions, boosting the number of women in international roles can fast-track us towards gender equality at the top levels of business and government. So, why not make the most of that opportunity? 

Ok then... so what can we do now? 

Everyone has a part to play in creating a more welcoming environment for women seeking international opportunities! 

• Governments can simplify procedures, allowing expat partners to work independently, granting them more autonomy. This not only boosts the well-being of expat families. but also enhances the attractiveness of the host country as a business hub, tapping into diverse skills and talents. 
• Companies can step up by highlighting the perks of global experience and showcasing successful female role models who've excelled internationally. On top of that, offering resources like pre-move training and childcare assistance can go a long way in supporting expat spouses. Education and awareness are key to nurturing an inclusive culture. 
• Communities can chip in too by setting up support networks tailored to women in international roles or experiences, providing crucial connections and encouragement for success abroad. 

Ultimately, supporting and empowering female expats benefits families, companies, and entire communities as we navigate a rapidly changing global landscape. 

Here at the Expat Project - Milan , we're personally rooting for seeing more female expats out there. Let's make it happen! 

– Article writen by Drielle Cerri , Professional Coach & Trainer, Co-Founder of The Expat Project - Milan.