Gender Equality, A Human Right

Gender equality is, first and foremost, a human right. Every human, irrespective of whether it is a woman or a man is entitled to live in dignity and in freedom from want and from fear.

In the status quo of things in the world, women are placed at a disadvantage. Hence, empowering women is very important. Empowering women is also an indispensable tool for advancing development and reducing poverty.

Empowered women contribute to the health and productivity of whole families and communities and to improved prospects for the next generation. Yet discrimination against women and girls — including gender-based violence, economic discrimination, reproductive health inequities, and harmful traditional practices — remains the most pervasive and persistent form of inequality.

Originally published at http://gogirl-foundation.org.