World Bank Women, Business and the Law (WBL) Online Course 2026 | Free Online Certificate Course for Professionals, Researchers and Gender Advocates Worldwide

The World Bank has opened enrollment for the Women, Business and the Law (WBL) Online Course 2026, a free self-paced programme designed to help learners understand how laws and public policies shape women's economic opportunities around the world. The course explores how legal systems influence women's ability to work, start and manage businesses, own assets, access financial services, and participate fully in economic life.

Developed by the World Bank Institute for Economic Development, the programme is based on the findings of the Women, Business and the Law (WBL) 2026 report, one of the world's most comprehensive studies on women's legal rights across 190 economies. Through expert-led lessons, policy analysis, real-world case studies, and interactive learning activities, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how legal reforms can remove barriers to women's economic participation and promote inclusive growth.

Whether you are a policymaker, researcher, lawyer, development practitioner, student, economist, or simply interested in gender equality and international development, this course offers practical knowledge that can be applied in both professional and academic settings. Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a free Certificate of Completion from the World Bank.

Overview

Programme: Women, Business and the Law (WBL) Online Course 2026

Organizer: World Bank Institute for Economic Development

Category: Free Online Course

Course Format: Self-Paced Online Learning

Duration: Approximately 15 Hours

Certificate: Free Certificate of Completion

Eligible Countries: Open Worldwide

Location: Online

Application Deadline: Open Enrollment (No Fixed Deadline)

About the Course

The Women, Business and the Law Online Course was created to help individuals understand the relationship between law, public policy, and women's economic empowerment. Drawing from the latest Women, Business and the Law 2026 report, the programme examines the legal frameworks that affect women's participation in the workforce, entrepreneurship, property ownership, access to finance, and other areas that influence economic independence.

Participants will learn how governments measure gender equality through legal indicators, identify barriers that limit women's opportunities, and evaluate reforms that promote inclusive economic growth. The course also demonstrates how evidence and data can be used to shape policies that improve outcomes for women and strengthen national development.

Because the programme is delivered entirely online, learners can complete the course from anywhere in the world at their own pace without interrupting their studies or professional commitments.

Course Benefits

Participants will enjoy a range of benefits, including:

• Free access to World Bank learning materials.

• A flexible self-paced learning experience.

• An official Certificate of Completion upon successful completion of the course.

• Expert video lectures delivered by World Bank professionals.

• Interactive assessments and knowledge checks.

• Discussion forums that encourage global learning and collaboration.

• Practical knowledge of gender-responsive laws and public policies.

• Access to research findings and legal data covering 190 economies.

• A stronger understanding of how legal reforms support women's economic empowerment and sustainable development.

What You Will Learn

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Understand the legal barriers affecting women's economic participation.

• Analyse gender-related laws and public policies.

• Interpret and apply data from the Women, Business and the Law report.

• Evaluate reforms aimed at improving women's economic opportunities.

• Compare legal and policy frameworks across different countries.

• Strengthen evidence-based decision-making.

• Communicate research findings effectively to policymakers and development stakeholders.

Eligibility Requirements

The course is open to participants from all countries, including Nigeria.

It is suitable for:

• Government officials.

• Policy analysts.

• Researchers.

• Academics.

• Economists.

• Lawyers and legal professionals.

• Civil society organisations.

• Gender equality advocates.

• Development practitioners.

• University students.

• Young professionals.

No previous technical knowledge or specialised experience is required.

Course Structure

The programme includes expert video lectures, reading materials, interactive assessments, knowledge checks, and discussion forums designed to reinforce learning. Participants can study whenever it is convenient for them, making the course suitable for both students and working professionals.

Learners who successfully complete all required modules and assessments will receive a digital Certificate of Completion, which can be added to their CV, LinkedIn profile, or professional portfolio.

Why This Course Matters

Despite significant progress in recent years, women across the world continue to face legal and policy barriers that limit their economic opportunities. According to the Women, Business and the Law 2026 report, women globally enjoy only about two-thirds of the legal rights available to men, and no country has yet achieved full legal equality across all the areas measured by the report.

Understanding these challenges is essential for governments, researchers, legal professionals, development organisations, and anyone working to promote inclusive economic growth. This course provides practical tools for analysing legal reforms, interpreting global data, and supporting policies that create more equitable opportunities for women.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

• Visit the official Women, Business and the Law Online Course portal.

• Create a learning account or sign in to an existing account.

• Enrol in the Women, Business and the Law (WBL) Online Course 2026.

• Complete the lessons and assessments at their own pace.

• Receive a Certificate of Completion after successfully finishing the course.

Application Deadline

There is no fixed application deadline for this programme. Enrollment remains open throughout the year, allowing eligible participants to register and begin learning at any time.

If you are interested in understanding how laws and public policies shape women's economic opportunities while earning a free certificate from the World Bank, this course offers an excellent opportunity to build valuable knowledge and strengthen your professional profile at no cost.