UN Women (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Social Issues)

Context: Gaza is currently grappling with a humanitarian crisis, particularly affecting women and girls, as highlighted in a recent UN Women report, "Scarcity and Fear," which underscores the dire repercussions of restricted access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

UN Women

• About: It is the United Nations entity devoted to promoting gender equality and empowering women globally.
• Global Advocacy: It serves as a global advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls worldwide.
• Accelerating Progress: Established to expedite progress in meeting the needs of women and girls on a global scale.
• Setting Standards: UN Women assists UN Member States in establishing and upholding global standards for achieving gender equality.
• Collaboration and Support: It collaborates with governments and civil society to develop laws, policies, programs, and services aimed at effectively implementing these standards.
• Coordination Role: UN Women coordinates and promotes the UN system's efforts in advancing gender equality globally.
• Integration with 2030 Agenda: It ensures that gender equality is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advocates for a more inclusive world through its work.
• Focusing on four strategic priorities:

o Women lead, participate in and benefit equally from governance systems

o Women have income security, decent work and economic autonomy

o All women and girls live a life free from all forms of violence 

o Women and girls contribute to and have greater influence in building sustainable peace and resilience, and benefit equally from the prevention of natural disasters and conflicts and humanitarian action.