The Care Economy:- A Key Investment for Growth and Well-Being.

The care economy is the foundation of human life and economic activity. It ensures that people—both today and in future multiplying—are Growth and Well-Being cared for, supported, and able to participate in society. Yet, despite its critical role, the social and economic value of care remains largely invisible.

If unpaid care work were properly valued, it would account for a staggering 9% of global GDP, or around $11 trillion. In Latin America alone, it could represent between 15.7% and 24.2% of regional GDP, making it one of the biggest contributors to the economy—outpacing many individual business.

Care work is what allows all other jobs to exist. Whether it’s raising children, Growth and Well-Being caring for the elderly, or supporting loved ones, care makes life possible. But because much of this work is unpaid or underpaid, it often goes unrecognized in economic policies and planning.

Investing in the Care Economy Creates Jobs and Growth

Beyond its social importance, the care economy is an untapped engine for job creation. Investing in care doesn’t just support families—it drives economic growth. According to the World Economic Forum’s “The Future of the Care Economy” report, a $1.3 trillion investment in care-related jobs could generate a $3.1 trillion boost to GDP and create over 10 million jobs in the U.S. alone.

As populations age and fertility rates decline, demand for caregivers and care services is only going to increase. Supporting the care economy is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic necessity.

The Gender Gap in Care Work

Despite its importance, care work—both paid and unpaid—falls unequal on women. Globally, women spend three times more hours than men on unpaid care tasks.

In some regions, like Latin America, this gap is even wider, with women spending up to seven times more hours on domestic and caregiving responsibilities. In countries like India, this number jumps to eight times more.

This unequal distribution of care work is Growth and Well-Being a major barrier to women’s full economic involvement. Many women are forced to work fewer hours, take lower-paying jobs, or leave the workforce entirely due to caretaking responsibilities.

Care is often viewed as a private, household matter—one that is automatically assigned to women. This outdated mindset not only increase gender inequality but also limits economic growth and workforce possible.

A Call for a Care-Centered Economy

To build a more equitable, sustainable, Growth and Well-Being and prosperous future, we must recognize care as a shared responsibility.

Governments, businesses, and society need to prioritize the care economy through policies, investments, and cultural shifts.

1.Recognizing and compensating unpaid care work
2.Expanding access to affordable childcare and eldercare services
3.Investing in care-related jobs and fair wages for caregivers
4.Shifting societal norms so care work is valued and sharedThe care economy is one of humanity’s most valuable yet overlooked assets. If we want true economic growth and well-being for all, it’s time to put care at the center of the conversation.