Gender equality is an urgent imperative. Crises, conflict, and global trends such as climate change, natural resource scarcity, and technological transitions exacerbate inequalities.
In many societies, reversals, and backlash against gender equality, sluggish economic growth, and government fiscal and debt burdens compound the challenge. Progress on gender equality Sustainable Development Goal 5 is worryingly off-track.
Gender equality for all people is a matter of fairness and justice. Gender equality is a principle of international law recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
It is also essential for development. Growing evidence shows how removing gender barriers unlocks economic productivity, reduces poverty, deepens social cohesion, and enhances well-being and prosperity for current and future generations. Women’s participation and leadership improve the management of natural resources, strengthen resilience, and make economies more competitive.
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