In 2024, women’s rights across the globe encounter unprecedented challenges, with one in four countries acknowledging a degradation in these rights. The recent UN Women report, “Women’s Rights in Review: 30 Years After Beijing,” highlights how economic turmoil, climate crises, and geopolitical conflicts further hinder gender equality efforts that have been decades in the making.
Despite having been led by women at various times, many countries still lack true gender parity. UN Women alarmingly states that a woman or girl is killed every ten minutes by a family member or partner. The digital realm also worsens gender disparities, as AI and social media can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, leaving women underrepresented in tech sectors.
The rise in conflict has placed an additional 50 percent of women and girls in danger over the last decade, with rights defenders facing daily threats. Crises such as COVID-19 and soaring living costs not only stall progress but actively reverse it, according to UN Women.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that a world thriving alongside empowered women and girls is essential for collective wellbeing, yet we are witnessing a troubling trend of misogyny gaining traction. UN Women’s Executive Director, Sima Bahous, called for unwavering commitment to challenging these barriers, affirming that women and girls demand change.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, the report reveals positive strides like 1,531 legal reforms promoting gender equality since 1995. However, achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development requires further action.
The Beijing+30 Action Agenda prioritises crucial areas such as ensuring women’s tech access, enhancing social protections, and funding women-led initiatives for peace. It emphasizes the urgency of ending violence against women through comprehensive and well-supported legislation.
This momentous year serves as a call to governments, businesses, and civil societies to reinforce commitments to women’s rights. UN Women asserts its dedication to ensuring all women and girls enjoy their rights fully, urging everyone to transform these commitments into tangible actions.
In 2024, a significant portion of countries report a backlash against women’s rights, revealing increasing discrimination and weakening legal protections. UN Women’s report highlights the dangers women face, including violence and digital inequity. Celebrating past achievements while stressing ongoing challenges, it calls for action to ensure equality and end violence against women, reinforcing the importance of dedicated efforts in politics and society.
In conclusion, the fight for women’s rights is at a critical juncture in 2024, facing backlashes that threaten decades of progress. The UN Women’s report emphasises the necessity of sustained efforts towards gender equality, highlighting both gains and challenges. It is a pivotal moment for all stakeholders to champion women’s rights and turn promises into action, as the empowerment of women is vital for societal thriving.
Original Source: news.un.org
