UNCSW

______________________________________
Agenda: Addressing investment in policies and
programs that address gender inequalities and
boosting women’s agency and leadership
 Table of Contents
S No. Topic Pg No.
1. Letter from the Executive Board 3
2. Best Practices to research before MUN 4
3. Introduction to the committee 5
4. Introduction to the agenda 6-7
5. Historical Context 8-9
6. Past Relevant UN Actions 10-12
7. Investment in Gender Equality 12-14
8. Boosting women’s Agency and Leadership 14-16
9. Role of members & stakeholders 16-17
10. Current Challenges and Barriers 18
11. Key Points to address 19-20
12. Links for further research 21
Letter from the Executive Board:
Dear Delegates,

Welcome to Solaris MUN 2024. We are beyond excited to meet you and
look forward to two days of productive and stimulating debates. Model
United Nations has become a vital part of our lives; it is both educational
and empowering, allowing us to construct opinions on global issues
through the perspectives of different countries. As you embark on this
journey, debating and discussing issues of national and international
importance, you already stand as leaders and torchbearers for others. This
experience will train you to be changemakers for the nation. Whether you
are new to this or have participated in other conferences, the executive
board is here to guide you every step of the way.

We hope that as soon as you log into the committee session, you will learn
something new and grow in one way or another—whether by overcoming
your fear of public speaking or enhancing your ability to lead. If this is your
first Model United Nations Conference, don’t worry. Feel free to approach
any of us during the conference if you need support. Our goal is to enhance
your knowledge and engage you in professionalism, healthy debates, and
meaningful takeaways from this two-day event.

We are providing you with a Background Guide to give you a basic idea of
the committee’s purpose and agenda, along with some sources for further
information. Please note that this guide is not the only source for reference;
it is meant to provide a brief overview. Feel free to use your creativity to
explore additional information, though the provided sources are considered
important.

Regards,

Jesus Goyal (Chairperson) jesusgoyal@gmail.com

Priyansh Kumar (Vice-Chairperson) priyanshkumar0089@gmail.com

Insiya Singla (Rapporteur) insiyasingla190.2014@gmail.com

Best practices to research before an MUN:
(You can take these best practices into account, not only for this MUN but
for other MUNs as well.)
 Read the Agenda and Background Guides Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with these
documents at least 3-4 days prior to the conference, and take note of all critical
information. For crisis situations, review the analysis and updates issued a week before
the MUN.

 Research Extensively: Use Google and other resources to find related documents
such as UN reports, news articles, and scholarly papers to fill in any gaps in your
understanding and always refer to reliable sources and keep them handy for reference
or to substantiate your points if questioned

 Understand Your Country’s Perspective: Research how your assigned country views
the agenda. This includes understanding its foreign policy, historical context, and past
actions related to the issue.

 Know the Committee’s Mandate: Be aware of what the committee can discuss and do,
but also broaden your knowledge beyond the mandate to contribute effectively. 
Analyze Subtopics and Predict Discussions: Break down the main agenda into
subtopics and anticipate the kinds of discussions and debates that might arise.

 Address Gaps in Your Country’s Position: If your country’s stance is not well
documented or is poor on a topic, use this opportunity to offer a unique perspective and
stimulate debate.

 Consider Key Questions: While researching, ask questions like: What is the topic
about? What are the key terms? What are the major issues and why? What actions has
your country taken or proposed? Which countries are involved and what actions are
they taking?

 Check Recent Updates and Developments: Stay informed about any recent
developments related to the agenda by reviewing the latest news and updates. This will
help you provide the most current and relevant information during the MUN.

 Prepare Potential Solutions: Develop a list of potential solutions and actions that align
with your country’s stance and policies that could be proposed during the MU

 Develop Speeches and Statements: Prepare a range of speeches and statements

related to different subtopics to participate effectively in the debates.
Introduction to the committee:
The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) is a
pivotal body within the United Nations system, dedicated to promoting
gender equality and the empowerment of women. It is a functional
commission of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). It was
established by ECOSOC resolution 11(II) of 1946. The UNCSW plays a
critical role in setting global standards and policies for the advancement of
women's rights. It is instrumental in monitoring and reviewing progress in
the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, as
well as other international agreements related to gender equality. The
Commission convenes annually, bringing together representatives from
Member States, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to
address emerging issues affecting women and girls worldwide. Through its
deliberations and resolutions, the UNCSW influences national and
international policies, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into
all aspects of development, peace, and security.

The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW)

consists of forty-five Member States of the United Nations serving as
members of the Commission at any one time. The Commission includes
one representative from each of the 45 Member States, elected by the
Economic and Social Council for a period of four years on the basis of
equitable geographical distribution:

• 13 members from Africa

• 11 from Asia

• 9 from Latin America and the Caribbean

• 8 from Western Europe and other States

• 4 from Eastern Europe

Introduction to the agenda:
Gender inequality remains one of the greatest barriers to sustainable
development, holding back half of the world’s population from fully
participating in economic, political, and social progress. Women continue to
face unequal access to education, healthcare, employment, and
decision-making roles, which stifles not only personal growth but also the
collective advancement of societies. According to the World Economic
Forum, at the current pace of progress, it will take over 130 years to close
the gender gap globally, making the need for urgent action indisputable.
Investing in targeted policies that address these inequalities while
enhancing women's agency and leadership is not only the right thing to
do—it is a strategic imperative for economic resilience and social
stability.

Research shows that when women thrive, economies grow. Studies by

McKinsey Global Institute indicate that closing the gender gap in the
labor force could boost global GDP by $12 trillion by 2025. Similarly,
companies with greater gender diversity in leadership roles experience up
to 21% higher profitability. However, achieving these outcomes requires
deliberate investments across key sectors and stakeholders—
governments, civil society, and the private sector alike.

Strategic Policy Directions

Achieving gender equality and enhancing women’s leadership calls for a

multi-pronged strategy:

1. Gender-Responsive Budgeting: Governments must allocate

resources to ensure equitable development. For example, Canada’s
Gender Budgeting Act integrates gender-based analysis into every
federal budget, prioritizing policies that uplift women and marginalized
groups.
2. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between governments
and businesses are essential. Companies like Unilever and Deloitte
have established leadership training programs for women,
recognizing that diverse leadership enhances innovation and
sustainability.
 3. Combatting Social Norms: Cultural attitudes often pose invisible
barriers to women’s advancement. UNICEF’s social awareness
campaigns in India, such as the "Daughters Are Precious"
initiative, are challenging gender stereotypes and promoting the
importance of educating girls and ending child marriage.
4. Technology and Innovation: In Africa, the African Girls Can Code
Initiative equips young women with tech skills to participate in the
digital economy, creating pathways for leadership in the technology
sector. Similarly, Second Chance Education programs in
developing countries empower women who missed formal schooling,
giving them the tools to lead economically independent lives

Aligning with Global Frameworks for Change

This agenda aligns with SDG 5 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower
women and girls worldwide. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for
Action further underscores the importance of promoting women’s
participation in all sectors. Addressing these issues through investments
and policies will pave the way for resilient, inclusive, and prosperous
societies.

Gender equality isn’t just a social issue; it’s the foundation for a thriving
global economy. With evidence-backed policies, innovative
approaches, and inclusive partnerships, the world can unlock the vast
potential of women’s leadership. As history has shown us—whether
through the leadership of women in conflict-affected regions like Rwanda or
through financial inclusion models in Bangladesh—empowering women
transforms societies.

Our success depends on what we choose to invest in today. By adopting

these strategies and driving gender-responsive reforms, we can break
down systemic barriers and build a future where every woman has the
opportunity to lead, inspire, and create change. Let’s seize this
opportunity to make gender equality a reality, not just an aspiration.
Historical Context:
The historical context of gender inequality is deeply rooted in patriarchal
structures that have existed for centuries across cultures and societies.
From ancient civilizations to modern times, women have often been
relegated to subordinate roles, denied access to education, political power,
and economic opportunities. Understanding this history is crucial for
addressing the current agenda in hand.

1. Ancient Societies and Patriarchy

In many ancient societies, such as those in Mesopotamia and Egypt,

women had certain rights, including property ownership and inheritance.
However, these rights were often limited, and societal norms predominantly
favored male authority. For instance, in Ancient Greece, women were
excluded from public life and denied the right to vote, reflecting a
widespread belief in male superiority. Similarly, in ancient Rome, while
women could own property, they were largely considered dependents of
their male relatives and lacked legal agency.

2. The Rise of Feminism in the 19th Century

The 19th century marked a significant turning point as women began to

organize and advocate for their rights. The suffragette movement
emerged, with activists like Susan B. Anthony and Emmeline Pankhurst
leading the fight for women's voting rights. This period also saw the
publication of key feminist texts, such as Mary Wollstonecraft's "A
Vindication of the Rights of Woman" (1792), which challenged traditional
gender roles and called for women's education and empowerment.

3. The 20th Century and Global Movements

The early 20th century saw the first significant legal victories for women’s
rights. Many countries began granting women the right to vote, beginning
with New Zealand in 1893, followed by several others throughout the
century. The World Wars also played a crucial role in changing gender
dynamics as women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers,
demonstrating their capabilities in various fields.

The 1960s and 1970s witnessed the rise of the second wave of feminism,
focusing on issues like reproductive rights, workplace equality, and
combating sexual violence. Key events included the formation of the
National Organization for Women (NOW) in the United States and the
publication of Betty Friedan’s "The Feminine Mystique" (1963), which
critiqued the societal expectation of women as homemakers.

4. Recent Developments and the Need for Continued Action

Despite the progress made, gender inequalities persist globally, as

evidenced by persistent disparities in leadership positions, wage gaps, and
access to education and healthcare. Recent movements like #MeToo and
Time’s Up highlight ongoing challenges and the urgent need for
comprehensive policies that address the root causes of gender inequality.

Examples of effective policies can be found in countries that have

prioritized gender equality, such as Rwanda, which boasts the highest
percentage of women in parliament globally due to proactive gender
quotas. Similarly, Nordic countries have implemented extensive parental
leave policies and childcare support, significantly boosting women’s
workforce participation.

This historical context of gender inequality reveals a complex interplay of

social, economic, and political factors that have shaped women's roles
throughout history. As the UNCSW agenda addresses investment in
policies and programs to combat these inequalities, it is essential to
recognize the progress made and the work that remains. Empowering
women and promoting their leadership not only fosters equality but also
enhances the well-being and development of societies as a whole. By
learning from the past, we can pave the way for a more equitable future for
all.
Past Relevant UN Actions:
The United Nations has a long-standing commitment to advancing gender
equality and empowering women globally. Through various initiatives and
agreements, the UN has established a robust framework for promoting
women's rights and increasing their leadership roles. Key milestones
include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for
Action, which set important standards for gender equality. The UN has also
facilitated programs that promote gender responsive investments and
policies, recognizing the critical role of women in sustainable development.
These efforts aim to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure that women's
voices are heard and valued in all aspects of society.

1. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination

Against Women (CEDAW):

Adopted in 1979, CEDAW is an international bill of rights for women,

obligating countries to eliminate discrimination against women in all
forms. Ratifying nations must implement its provisions and report on
measures taken.

2. Istanbul Convention:

This 2011 Council of Europe treaty creates a comprehensive legal

framework to combat violence against women, focusing on
prevention, protection, prosecution, and integrated policies. It
mandates protective measures for victims and prosecution of
offenders.

3. Convention on the Political Rights of Women:

Adopted in 1953. This treaty affirms women's right to vote, hold public
office, and participate in political activities, thereby promoting their
leadership and agency in governance.
 4. Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action:

Adopted in 1995, this policy agenda for women’s empowerment

addresses violence against women, urging governments to enact and
enforce laws to punish and redress such violence, emphasizing
comprehensive legal and social measures.

5. Belém do Pará Convention:

Adopted in 1994, this Inter-American convention is the first binding

instrument to address violence against women explicitly. It mandates
state action to prevent, investigate, and punish violence against
women, ensuring their right to live free from violence.

6. International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

(ICESCR):

Adopted in 1966. This treaty highlights the rights of women to work,

receive education, and enjoy a decent standard of living. These rights
are essential for empowering women and enabling them to take on
leadership roles.

7. Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC):

Adopted in 1989. This treaty underscores the rights of girls,

promoting their access to education and their participation in
decision-making processes.

(Delegates are advised to read these conventions and their

respective countries’ stances on the given conventions.)

UN Women is committed to addressing gender inequalities and enhancing

women's agency and leadership by preventing and responding to violence
against women and girls, increasing access to essential services for
survivors, and creating safer private and public spaces. At the global level
we work to advance international policies providing support to the United
Nations General Assembly and the Commission on the Status of Women,
and ensuring that the post-2015 development agenda includes specific
targets to end gender inequalities against women and girls.
UN Women works with governments, UN agencies, civil society
organizations, and other institutions to support countries in adopting and
implementing investment policies and programs that address gender
inequalities and boost women's agency and leadership.

The commission focuses on changing attitudes and behaviours that

perpetuate gender inequality and tolerate violence against women and
girls. By identifying and sharing good practices with relevant stakeholders,
we aim to guide the development of investment policies and programs that
address these issues. We also work to improve the quality and accessibility
of essential services for women and girls, empowering them to lead more
fulfilling and independent lives.

Investment in Gender Equality:

Investment in gender equality policies and programs is not only a moral
imperative but also an economic necessity. Empowering women and girls
has far-reaching benefits, driving sustainable development and improving
overall societal well-being. This section explores the various dimensions of
investment in gender equality, highlighting the importance of financial,
political, and social commitment.

1. Economic Impact of Gender Equality:

Investing in gender equality can significantly boost economic growth.

According to a McKinsey Global Institute report, advancing gender
equality in the workforce could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.
Closing the gender gap in labor force participation could increase
productivity and stimulate economic activity. For instance, Norway and
Iceland, both known for their gender-inclusive policies, have consistently
ranked among the top countries for economic competitiveness while
maintaining high levels of female labor force participation.

2. Effective Policies and Programs:

To create a meaningful impact, investments must focus on effective

policies and programs that directly address the barriers faced by women.
Key areas for investment include:
  Education and Training: Ensuring that girls have access to quality
education is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty. Programs like
Girl Rising and Malala Fund invest in educational initiatives that
empower girls to pursue their dreams and achieve economic
independence.
 Healthcare Access: Investments in women's health services,
including reproductive health, are vital. The World Health
Organization emphasizes that improving women’s health not only
benefits individual women but also enhances families' health and
well-being.
 Economic Empowerment: Microfinance initiatives, such as those
implemented by Grameen Bank, have shown that providing women
with financial resources can lead to significant improvements in
household income and community development. Programs that
support women entrepreneurs, such as Women's World Banking,
facilitate access to credit and business training.

3. Political Representation and Leadership:

Investments in promoting women's political representation are essential for

creating gender-responsive governance. Countries with higher levels of
women's representation in leadership positions tend to have more
equitable policies. For example, Rwanda has achieved remarkable
success, with women holding 61% of parliamentary seats, largely due to
the government's commitment to gender quotas.

4. Public and Private Sector Partnerships:

Collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector

can amplify the impact of gender equality investments. Initiatives like UN
Women’s HeForShe campaign encourage men and boys to advocate for
gender equality, creating a broader base of support. Private companies that
adopt gender-inclusive policies often see improved employee morale,
productivity, and innovation.

5. Measuring Impact and Accountability:

For investments to be effective, it is essential to establish mechanisms for

measuring impact and accountability. The Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, call for gender equality and the
empowerment of all women and girls. Tracking progress towards these
goals through data collection and analysis helps ensure that investments
are directed toward areas that yield the most significant benefits.

Investing in gender equality policies and programs is a critical step toward

achieving a more just, equitable, and prosperous world. The economic
benefits, coupled with the societal improvements that arise from
empowering women, make a compelling case for increased investment in
gender equality. As nations, communities, and organizations mobilize
resources to support this agenda, it is essential to focus on inclusive,
evidence-based policies that address the unique challenges women face.
By prioritizing gender equality, we not only uplift women and girls but also
unlock the full potential of society as a whole.

Boosting women’s agency and leadership:

Boosting women's agency and leadership is essential for achieving gender
equality and sustainable development, as emphasized by the United
Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, which
aims to empower all women and girls. The UN Commission on the Status
of Women (CSW) plays a critical role in advancing this agenda, serving as
a global platform for dialogue, policy formulation, and advocacy for
women's rights. Targeted investments in policies and programs that tackle
systemic gender inequalities are vital for this effort.

Research shows that increasing women's participation in the workforce

could add an estimated $28 trillion to the global economy by 2025. This
figure highlights the economic necessity of empowering women and
demonstrates the potential benefits of gender equality. Studies have also
shown that diverse workplaces tend to be more innovative and resilient,
which further enhances productivity and growth. Consequently,
investments should prioritize enhancing access to education, healthcare,
and economic opportunities for women and girls, enabling them to become
effective leaders and decision-makers.
To realize this potential, governments and institutions must implement
gender responsive policies that ensure women are equally represented in
leadership roles across all sectors. This includes guaranteeing equal pay—
currently, women earn about 77 cents for every dollar earned by men—and
providing essential maternity protections and access to childcare. The
CSW emphasizes the importance of national policies that uphold women’s
rights and gender equality, urging member states to adopt legislation that
addresses discrimination and fosters an environment conducive to
women's leadership. Additionally, the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development stresses that gender equality is fundamental to sustainable
development, advocating for the integration of gender considerations into
all policy areas.

Mentorship and capacity-building initiatives are also crucial for dismantling

barriers to women's advancement. Increasing the number of women in
leadership roles can lead to fairer policies and improved organizational
performance. Evidence indicates that companies with higher levels of
gender diversity tend to outperform their peers, both in terms of financial
outcomes and employee satisfaction. By fostering mentorship programs
and capacity-building initiatives, organizations can create pathways for
women to ascend into leadership positions, thereby promoting a more
equitable workplace culture.

Recognizing and amplifying women’s contributions in politics, business,

and civil society is vital for driving social progress and fostering inclusive
development. The CSW has underscored the critical role of women in
peacebuilding and conflict resolution, highlighting that inclusive decision-
making processes yield more sustainable and effective solutions. Research
suggests that peace agreements are more likely to endure when women
are involved in the negotiation process, demonstrating their essential role in
fostering stability and resilience in societies.

Engaging men and boys in gender equality initiatives can further support
cultural shifts that enhance women's leadership. Campaigns like the UN’s
HeForShe exemplify efforts to mobilize men as allies in promoting gender
equality. By actively involving men and boys in discussions about gender
norms and expectations, we can foster a more supportive environment for
women’s leadership and agency.
By strategically addressing gender inequalities through comprehensive
investments and inclusive policies, we can create an environment that not
only celebrates women’s agency but also benefits society as a whole. The
work of the CSW reinforces the need for collective action to ensure that
women's voices are amplified and their rights upheld, paving the way for a
more equitable and just future.

Through ongoing advocacy and initiatives, the UN continues to highlight the

transformative potential of empowering women, offering a roadmap for
governments, organizations, and communities to follow in their efforts
toward gender equality. By prioritizing gender equality, we can build a more
just, inclusive, and sustainable world, ultimately benefiting all members of
society.

Role of Member States and Stakeholders

The promotion of gender equality and women's empowerment is a critical
global priority, with the United Nations Commission on the Status of
Women (UNCSW) playing a vital role in this endeavour. Effective
collaboration among member states and diverse stakeholders is essential
for addressing gender inequalities and enhancing women's leadership on a
global scale.

The UNCSW serves as a key platform for international coordination in

advancing women's rights, facilitating the exchange of best practices in
developing gender responsive policies such as equal pay, anti-
discrimination legislation, and maternity leave. It emphasizes the
importance of adequate funding for programs in education, healthcare, and
vocational training, urging governments to prioritize these financial
resources to ensure successful implementation.

Member states are responsible for gathering and analyzing data on gender
disparities to monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives.
The UNCSW supports this process by facilitating the collection and
dissemination of data, which enables informed decision-making and
encourages participation in regional and international forums. These
discussions foster a shared understanding of challenges and successes in
promoting gender equality.
Civil society organizations, including NGOs and grassroots groups, play
significant roles in advocating for women's rights and holding governments
accountable on the international stage. Their insights into the needs of
women and girls across diverse communities are invaluable, and the
UNCSW actively engages these organizations to ensure their voices are
included in global policy discussions, amplifying the perspectives of those
most affected by gender inequality.

The private sector also has a critical role in promoting gender equality. By
adopting gender-diverse hiring practices, offering mentorship programs,
and fostering inclusive workplace cultures, businesses can significantly
contribute to empowering women. Additionally, academic and research
institutions are essential for conducting studies that inform policies aimed at
addressing gender inequalities. Collaboration between member states,
academic institutions, and the UNCSW helps ground policies in robust
research, ensuring they are effective and evidence based.

International organizations support member states in implementing gender

focused programs through financial assistance and technical support, often
aligning with global priorities set by the UNCSW. The media plays a crucial
role in shaping public perceptions of gender issues; by highlighting
women's contributions and challenges, the media can raise awareness and
promote a culture that values gender equality.

Collective action is vital for advancing this agenda. The UNCSW fosters
collaboration among member states, civil society, the private sector, and
international organizations, creating a cohesive approach to addressing
gender inequalities. Engaging men and boys in gender equality initiatives is
equally important, as fostering discussions around gender norms can
cultivate allies who actively support women's leadership.

In conclusion, the active engagement of member states and stakeholders is

critical for advancing the global agenda centred on gender equality, with
the UNCSW providing essential guidance and support. By collaborating
effectively across borders, they can create a more equitable environment
that empowers women and enhances their leadership in all sectors. This
collective effort is essential for achieving sustainable development and
reinforcing a universal commitment to human rights for everyone, fostering
a just society for all.
Current Challenges and Barriers:
The United Nations highlights several significant challenges that women
face regarding gender inequalities and leadership. Women are still
underrepresented in leadership roles, holding only about 25% of
parliamentary seats worldwide.

Cultural norms and stereotypes often undermine their authority and

discourage them from pursuing leadership positions. Additionally, the
gender pay gap affects women's economic independence, with women
earning approximately 84 cents for every dollar earned by men.

Limited access to quality education and vocational training further restricts

women's skill development for leadership roles. Many women also bear a
disproportionate burden of caregiving responsibilities, making it difficult to
balance work and family life. The prevalence of gender-based violence
significantly hinders women's participation in public life, while a lack of
networking and mentorship opportunities stifles their professional growth.

Weak legal frameworks in many regions perpetuate these inequalities, and

women from marginalized groups face even greater challenges.
Addressing these issues requires comprehensive strategies, policy
reforms, and societal changes to promote gender equality and empower
women in leadership. Gender inequalities also contribute to gender-based
violence.

According to the UNODC's Global Study on Homicide 2019, many gender-

related killings of women and girls are linked to prior experiences of
physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. A joint UNODC and UN Women
research brief revealed that nearly 89,000 women and girls were
intentionally killed in 2022, marking the highest annual figure recorded in
the past 20 years. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for
effective strategies to combat gender-based violence.
Key Points to address:
1. Importance of Gender Equality: Emphasize that achieving gender
equality is not only a matter of justice but also essential for
sustainable development and economic growth. Countries with
greater gender equality experience higher levels of economic
productivity and improved social outcomes.

2. Representation in Leadership: Highlight the need for increased

representation of women in leadership positions across all sectors—
political, economic, and social. Stress that diverse leadership leads to
better decision-making and policy outcomes.

3. Access to Education: Advocate for policies that ensure equal

access to quality education and vocational training for girls and
women. Education is crucial for empowering women and enabling
them to take on leadership roles.

4. Addressing the Gender Pay Gap: Discuss strategies to close the

gender pay gap, such as enforcing equal pay legislation, promoting
transparency in pay scales, and implementing family-friendly
workplace policies that support work-life balance.

5. Combating Gender-Based Violence: Stress the importance of

comprehensive measures to combat gender-based violence,
including the enforcement of laws, public awareness campaigns, and
support services for survivors.
6. Supporting Women in the Workforce: Advocate for policies that
support women’s participation in the workforce, such as affordable
childcare, flexible work arrangements, and mentorship programs.

7. Empowering Marginalized Women: Highlight the need for

intersectional approaches that address the unique challenges faced
by marginalized groups, including women of colour, women with
disabilities, and women from low-income backgrounds.

8. Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Call for the strengthening of

legal frameworks to protect women's rights and ensure that existing
laws are effectively enforced.

9. International Cooperation: Emphasize the importance of

international cooperation in sharing best practices and supporting
initiatives that promote gender equality globally.
Links for Further Research:
 UN Women

 European Commission - Gender Equality

 Status of Women Canada

 Australian Government - Women's Equality

 Ministry of Women and Child Development, India

 UK Government - Gender Equality

 World Bank - Gender

 OECD - Gender

 UNDP - Gender Equality

 Peace Corps - Gender Equity and Women’s Empowerment

 USAID - Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment

 OECD - Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Case Studies

 UN Women - The Education Gender Gap in Early Childhood Education

 World Bank - Women and Girls in Africa

 ResearchGate - Gender Equality Research Review 2018

 UNDP - Accelerating Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Through Innovative

Financing

 Global Citizen - The Case for Gender Equality

 UNDP - Gender Equality and the Sustainable Development Goals

 Gender and Security - Publications