United Nations – Thirty years after the adoption of a landmark gender equality blueprint, a new United Nations report warns that women’s rights are under attack globally, with nearly a quarter of all countries experiencing a backlash against gender equality , reported the Hindu.
Released ahead of International Women’s Day, the UN Women report highlights both progress and setbacks. While advancements have been made in girls’ education, family planning, and laws against gender-based violence, challenges persist. Alarmingly, a woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes by a partner or family member, and cases of conflict-related sexual violence have surged by 50% since 2022.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that misogyny is becoming mainstream instead of equal rights, calling for a firm global stance on ensuring gender equality. The report also reveals that women still have only 64% of the legal rights granted to men, and despite progress, three-quarters of lawmakers worldwide are male.
UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous announced a roadmap to accelerate progress, focusing on digital access, social protections, education, and eliminating violence against women. The plan also emphasizes equal decision-making power and gender-responsive humanitarian aid in conflict zones.
