Final answer:
Awareness of gender issues is categorized under sociocultural factors in PEST analysis, as it deals with cultural traditions, social expectations, and gender roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
Awareness of gender issues falls under sociocultural factors in a PEST analysis framework. Sociocultural factors encompass aspects such as cultural traditions, social expectations, and innovations, which all play a role in shaping gender-related concerns. These include how society views gender roles, opportunities for women in the workforce, and how gender is perceived in various cultural contexts.
Gender issues also intertwine with other PEST categories. For instance, political factors might influence gender issues through legislation related to equality and anti-discrimination laws. However, when specifically categorizing the awareness of gender issues in the context of PEST analysis, they would most aptly be sorted into the sociocultural category.