UK falls in 2009 Global Gender Gap Index

Figures released from the World Economic Forum show that the UK has fallen slightly in the rankings from 13th in 2008 to 15th this year.

Iceland has jumped to no 1 from 4th last year knocking Norway of the top spot who has fallen into 3rd position behind Finland ( 2nd).  Sweden comes is in  4th position.
The report assesses countries on how well they are dividing their resources and opportunities among male and female populations, regardless of the overall levels of these resources and opportunities.
The report covers 134 countries and began in 2006.  This year ( 2009 ) South Africa and Lesotho have entered the top ten, in 6th and 10th place respectively,   but the Philippines has lost ground for the first time and is currently 9th.
Switzerland has gained in postition for the second year,due to greater female participation in the economy,  whilst Italy holds one of the lowest positions for a European country (72nd) due to exactly the reverse.