UN Women calls on the world: “Invest in women, accelerate progress” as the best way to foster economic growth and build more prosperous and equal societies.
In a context where wars and crises are eroding decades of progress in gender equality, the need to invest in women is more urgent than ever. In places like the Middle East, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and others, women are the most affected by conflicts they did not create.
Alarming statistics:
- 1 in 10 women in the world lives in extreme poverty.
- More than 614 million women and girls live in conflict-affected areas, doubling since 2017.
- The climate crisis is projected to push 236 million more women and girls into hunger by 2030.
- Only 61% of women of working age are in the labor market, compared to 90% of men.
It is vital not to waste the benefits of gender equality. With the right policies, more than 100 million women and girls could be lifted out of poverty. Moreover, investment in care sectors could create nearly 300 million jobs by 2035.
The current reality:
- Programs dedicated to gender equality represent only 4% of official development assistance.
- An additional $360 billion annually is needed in developing countries to achieve gender equality and empower women, a fraction of the $2.2 trillion spent globally on military expenses in 2022.
To achieve significant change, it is crucial to invest in peace and in laws and policies that promote the rights of women and girls, transforming social norms and ensuring access to land, property, health, education, and decent employment.
Join us in supporting these crucial goals for an equal and sustainable future.
Source: UN Women (onumulheres.org.br)
