As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), it is essential to reflect on the commitments made by nearly 200 governments and activists in September 1995. The BPfA captures a monumental pledge for equal rights and opportunities for women and girls, highlighting 12 vital action areas ranging from employment to political participation, aimed at eradicating gender-based violence.
This year is pivotal as we approach both the BPfA’s anniversary in 2025 and CSW69, providing a crucial platform at the United Nations to address women’s rights progress. With just five years left to fulfil the ambitious 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this moment calls for intensified action toward equality amidst rising authoritarianism and dwindling human rights.
The impact of the BPfA on global women’s rights cannot be overstated. It catalysed a surge in feminist organisations and strengthened legal protections, significantly enhancing women’s political participation and economic empowerment around the globe.
As BPfA aligns with global frameworks like the 2030 Agenda, UN Women asserts that its full implementation will significantly enhance gender equality and sustainable development. While there is a dedicated goal on gender equality (SDG Goal 5), it is interconnected with the success of all 17 goals, further intertwining gender considerations into the entire framework.
Despite the substantial progress made since 1995, the path to gender equality remains steep. Currently, no nation has achieved complete legal equality between genders, and no indicators under SDG Goal 5 have been met. The rollback of rights has exacerbated existing inequalities, especially for women and girls, with stark examples from Afghanistan, Gaza, and the climate crisis.
Working-class women are feeling the brunt of these compounding challenges, facing structural barriers in employment, unequal pay, and imbalanced caregiving responsibilities. With women earning, on average, only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men, many are locked out of good jobs due to a lack of affordable childcare and are disproportionately engaged in precarious work.
Gender equality is inherently a trade union issue. Inequities within the workplace affect wages, job security, and the overall work environment. Trade unions are crucial allies in combating these disparities, offering collective bargaining power and strategies to empower working women.
On this anniversary, trade unions are making pressing demands to build upon the legacy of the BPfA and advance women’s rights further. They are calling for heightened action to ensure equity, safety, and the dismantling of systemic barriers blocking women’s advancement in all sectors.
The article reflects on the 30th anniversary of the BPfA, highlighting its global significance in promoting women’s rights and gender equality. Despite progress, challenges remain, particularly for working-class women, as legal equality remains unachieved and inequalities persist. Trade unions play a crucial role in addressing these issues and advocating for women’s rights, urging immediate action for change as we approach 2025.
In summary, as we mark 30 years since the BPfA was established, there is a pressing need to recognise the significant yet incomplete journey towards gender equality. The impact of the BPfA is evident in the global landscape of women’s rights, but hurdles persist due to socio-political challenges. To achieve true equality by 2030, a concerted effort through global frameworks, trade union initiatives, and community support will be essential in dismantling the remaining barriers.
Original Source: www.ituc-csi.org
