Surrey to lead first ever global study on women in tourism transport employment

It will be the first ever project to document in greater detail the participation of women in tourism transport employment, specifically taking focus on land passenger transport (railway and road passenger transport), water passenger transport; and air passenger transport.

This initiative aims to highlight women's roles, challenges, and opportunities within the sector. The study will shed light on existing gender gaps, analyse the barriers women face in entering and advancing their careers, and provide actionable recommendations to promote fair and equitable employment opportunities.

The report emanating from the project will act as a springboard for future work to reduce gender-inequalities, to improve the conditions of women workers and prevent gender-based discrimination and violence in tourism transport employment. The study will also serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and organizations committed to promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the sector, 

The Surrey team undertaking the project comprises Dr Anke Winchenbach (lead), Prof Albert Kimbu and Prof Emily Ma. The final report is expected to be published in early 2026.