by Therese Hartwell
Achievements since Beijing 4th World Conference on Women:
- The passage of better laws promoting gender equality, protecting women from violence and reversing discriminatory laws. Unfortunately, passage of the laws does not guarantee that they are being enforced.
- More girls are getting an education and more girls and women have access to economic participation.
- Sub-saharan Africa and Southeast Asia have seen a significant improvement in women’s access to contraception.
- Violence against women continues to be some of the most pervasive violence in the world and is surrounded by the most silence and impunity.
- Political empowerment continues to elude women. For instance, currently only one fifth of the Parliamentary seats worldwide are held by women.
- Women are over-represented among poor people and shoulder over two-thirds of the share of unpaid work.
- Political will and leadership must be coupled with accountability.
- Increase investments to implement an agenda for women and girls.
- Increase the involvement of civil society members, including as instigators of action and monitors of accountability.
- Repeal laws that discriminate against women.