Gender Equality and Development are interconnected factors affecting worldwide nations' growth, sustainability, and progress. This research paper delves into an in-depth analysis of how gender equality is essential for development planning. The study acknowledges this subject's complexity; however, its importance cannot be overstated, as it affects every aspect of society today. Through a range of literature reviews and case studies derived from different academic sources, this essay seeks to highlight the various ways in which gender inequality hinders sustainable development efforts by affecting social norms, economic growth strategies, political participation processes and cultural values all around the world. By doing so, we hope to encourage policymakers to invest more resources towards creating policies that promote gender equality while also emphasising raising awareness about these issues among citizens globally.

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Keywords: Gender Equality, Sustainable Development, Social Norms, Economic Growth, Planning.