Researchers speak of “brain waste” when high-qualified people are not participating and not contributing to the economy. As a fact, Switzerland has a very high number of female talent with university degrees and professional qualifications. Yet, traditional gender stereotypes still allocate family care mainly to women. As a result: Women face cultural and structural barriers which often keep them from climbing the career ladder. We conclude: As long as equal shares in all spheres of life are not the norm, we won’t see the needle move much faster.

When equal shares are the norm

Social norms have grown – and they can change! That it can work differently – and very well so for both genders – is shown in the 10vor10 report by the compelling example of Anita Eckardt, Head Division Specialties with Implenia, an Advance Member company. Danish by origin, equal shares are the most natural thing in the Eckardt family. Family work is as much a father’s responsibility as it is a mother’s in the Nordics. Watch 10vor10 for the full report, also including a great portrait of Doris Russi Schurter, who holds multiple Director of non-executive board positions. She has some advice too how to juggle family and career successfully. Thank you, ladies, for being such an inspiration!

A warm thank you also to 10vor10 & team, especially Stephanie Knoll, for this enlightening report!