In the midst of deep transformation in the world economy, women have new problems, and still face hurdles that prevent their full and equitable participation in the labour market. Unceasing economic globalisation and the boom in service industries have increased women's employment, despite the pressure to reduce public sector spending and the greater flexibility of the labour market which have a negative impact on women's employment. Public sector employment and activities requiring fewer or lower qualifications are being reduced. Public sector modernisation and high flexibility constitute a risk for women. These statements in the context of workplace gender equity have a critical effect on structural economic crises and increases in poverty: the key point is the vulnerability of vast sectors of the population. One of the effects of social vulnerability is that households are forced to enter the labour market under extremely unfavourable conditions. Governments need to retain a key role in redistributing resources for adult education and training as means to stimulate economic growth and reduce social inequality.