The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, in his recent statement, highlighted the significance of safeguarding and promoting the rights of women all across the world. He then outlined the efforts made by the regional organizations in regard to protecting women rights.
He asserted, “At this time of proliferating crises, the international community must pursue proven strategies for peace and stability. Protecting and promoting women’s rights is such a strategy. Today’s conflicts are amplifying gender inequality, poverty, climate disruptions, and other forms of inequality”.
Gender equality offers a route to sustainable peace and conflict prevention, adding that millions of girls are not in the schools, and many are not financially independent. The number of women and girls suffering violence in their homes is rising.
“Misogyny and authoritarianism are mutually reinforcing & are antithetical to stable, prosperous societies. Women’s equality is a question of power”.
The ongoing war between Russia-Ukraine has also forced many women and girls to flee the war-torn country, putting them at risk of trafficking and exploitation of all kinds, the Secretary-General further stated.
“In all these conflicts, we have men in power & women excluded, their rights and freedoms deliberately targeted. Supporting survivors of sexual violence, as well as women peacebuilders and activists, is key. The evidence is growing by the year that securing women’s rights, including their right to equal participation at all levels, is essential to building and maintaining peace”.
He then expressed his appreciation for UN collaboration with the European Union, the African Union (AU), the League of Arab States and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
“The Women, Peace and Security agenda continues to be challenged & even reversed around the world. There is still a huge gap in their participation and in the implementation of promises made for their protection, human rights and dignity”, he then added.