Gender inequality is a factor that:

• Investing in education and health for women and girls
• Promoting gender equality in the workplace
• Ending violence against women
• Empowering women to participate in decision-making

By taking these steps, countries can make progress towards achieving gender equality and improving the HDI.

Here is a brief explanation of each option:

• a) Negatively affects HDI: Gender inequality is a major obstacle to human development. It is a denial of fundamental human rights and a barrier to progress. Gender inequality is a complex issue with many causes, including discrimination, violence, and poverty. It has a negative impact on all aspects of human development, including health, education, and economic opportunity.
• b) Has no impact on HDI: This option is incorrect because gender inequality does have a negative impact on the HDI. Countries with high levels of gender inequality tend to have lower HDI scores than countries with low levels of gender inequality.
• c) Positively influences HDI: This option is incorrect because gender inequality does not positively influence the HDI. Countries with high levels of gender inequality tend to have lower HDI scores than countries with low levels of gender inequality.
• d) Varies depending on location: This option is incorrect because gender inequality is a global issue that affects all countries. It is not something that varies depending on location.