The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in Nigeria has shown commitment to gender-responsive planning and budgeting (GRPB) as part of its efforts to promote gender equality, inclusive governance, and equitable resource allocation.
Key Aspects of FIRS’ Gender-Responsive Approach:
1. Gender-Sensitive Policies & Reforms
- FIRS aligns with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy (NGP) and global frameworks like the SDGs ( Gender Equality).
- It integrates gender considerations into tax policies to reduce disparities (potential exemptions or incentives for women-led businesses).
2. Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB)
- FIRS ensures budget allocations address gender gaps, such as:
- Training programs for women in tax administration.
- Gender-disaggregated data collection for better decision-making.
- Initiatives to improve women’s access to tax-related services.
3. Capacity Building & Awareness
- Staff training on gender mainstreaming in tax administration.
- Collaboration with Ministry of Women Affairs, UN Women, and civil society to enhance gender-responsive fiscal policies.
4. Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement
- Consultations with women entrepreneurs, market associations, and advocacy groups to address barriers in tax compliance.
Why It Matters
- Economic Empowerment: Fair tax policies can reduce burdens on women in informal sectors.
- Equitable Growth: Gender-responsive budgeting helps bridge gaps in revenue generation and service delivery.
- Compliance & Trust: Inclusive tax systems improve voluntary compliance among underrepresented groups.
Next Steps for FIRS
- Strengthen monitoring & evaluation of gender impacts in tax policies.
- Expand gender audits of internal processes and external programs.
- Advocate for legal reforms supporting women’s fiscal inclusion.
By adopting gender-responsive planning and budgeting, FIRS contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable Nigerian economy.
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