GOAL 5: GENDER EQUALITY

The elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls is not only a fundamental human right but also critical for accelerating sustainable development. It has been repeatedly proven that empowering women and girls creates a multiplier effect, accelerating economic growth and development in all areas. Since 2000, UNDP has placed gender equality at the center of its work alongside other UN partners and the international community. Today, more girls are attending school than 15 years ago, with gender parity achieved in primary education in most regions. Women now make up 41% of the paid workforce outside of agriculture, up from 35% in 1990. The Sustainable Development Goals aim to build on these achievements and eliminate discrimination against women and girls everywhere. However, significant inequalities still exist in the labor market, with women lacking equal access to jobs. Sexual violence and abuse, unequal distribution of unpaid care and domestic work, and discrimination in public office remain major barriers. Ensuring that women have equal rights to economic resources such as land and property is a vital goal, as is ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health for all. The number of women in public office is higher than ever, but promoting female leaders will contribute to strengthening policies and legislation that advance gender equality.