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Introduction to Gender Equality

In a society, everyone has the right to lead his/her life accordingly without any discrimination. When this state is achieved where all individuals are considered to be equal irrespective of their caste, gender, colour, profession, and status, we call it equality. Equality can also be defined as the situation where every individual has the same rights and equal opportunity to grow and prosper. 

Every individual of society dreams for equal rights and access to resources available at their disposal, but there is a lot of discrimination. This discrimination can be due to cultural differences, geographical differences, the colour of the individual, social status and even gender. The most prevalent discrimination is gender inequality. It is not a localised issue and is limited to only certain spheres of life but is prevalent across the globe. Even in progressive societies and top organisations, we can see many examples of gender bias. 

Gender equality can only be achieved when both male and female individuals are treated similarly. But discrimination is a social menace that creates division. We stop being together and stand together to tackle our problems. This social stigma has been creeping into the underbelly of all of society for many centuries. This has also been witnessed in gender-based cases. Gender inequality is the thing of the past as both men and women are creating history in all segments together.

Gender Equality builds a Nation

In this century, women and men enjoy the same privileges. The perception is changing slowly but steadily. People are now becoming more aware of their rights and what they can do in a free society. It has been found that when women and men hold the same position and participate equally, society progresses exclusively and creates a landmark. When a community reaches gender equality, everyone enjoys the same privileges and gets similar scopes in education, health, occupation, and political aspect. Even in the family, when both male and female members are treated in the same way, it is the best place to grow, learn, and add great value.

A nation needs to value every gender equally to progress at the right place. A society attains better development in all aspects when both genders are entitled to similar opportunities. Equal rights in decision making, health, politics, infrastructure, profession, etc will surely advance our society to a new level. The social stigma of women staying inside the house has changed. Nowadays, girls are equally competing with boys in school. They are also creating landmark development in their respective profession. Women are now seeking economic independence before they get married. It gives them the confidence to stand against oppression and make better decisions for themselves.

The age-old social structure dictated that women need to stay inside the home taking care of all when men go out to earn bread and butter. This has been practised for ages when the world outside was not safe. Now that the time has changed and we have successfully made our environment quite safer, women can step forward, get educated, pursue their passion, bring economic balance in their families, and share the weight of a family with men. This, in a cumulative way, will also make a country’s economy progress faster and better.

Methods to measure Gender Equality

Gender equality can be measured and a country’s growth can be traced by using the following methods.

Gender Development Index (GDI) is a gender-based calculation done similar to the Human Development Index. 

Gender Empowerment Measure (GEM) is a detailed calculation method of the percentage of female members in decision-making roles. 

Gender Equity Index (GEI) considers economic participation, education, and empowerment.

Global Gender Gap Index assesses the level of gender inequality present on the basis of four criteria: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, political empowerment, health and survival .

According to the Gender Gap Index (GGI), India ranks 140 among 156 participating countries. This denotes that the performance of India has fallen from the previous years, denoting negative growth in terms of closing the gender gap. In the current environment where equality and equal opportunities are considered supreme, this makes India be at a significant disadvantage.

Roadblocks to Gender Equality  

Indian society is still wrecked by such stigmas that dictate that women are meant to manage the home and stay indoors. This is being done for ages, leading to neglect of women in areas like education, health, wealth, and socio-economic fields. 

In addition to that, the dowry system is further crippling society. This ill practice had led to numerous female feticides. It has created a notion that girls are a burden on a family, which is one of the primary reasons a girl child cannot continue her education. Even if they excel in education and become independent, most of them are forced to quit their job as their income is considered a backup source, which is not fair. New-age women are not only independent, but they are confident too. The only thing they demand from society is support, which we should provide them.  

Along with dowry, there is one more burning issue that has a profound impact on women's growth. It is prevalent in all kinds of society and is known as violence. Violence against women is present in one or another form in public and private spaces. Sometimes, violence is accompanied by other burning issues such as exploitation, harassment, and trafficking, making the world unsafe for women. We must take steps to stop this and ensure a safe and healthy place for women.  

Poverty is also one of the major roadblocks towards gender equality. It has led to other malpractices such as child marriage, sale of children, trafficking and child labour, to name a few. Providing equal job opportunities and upliftment of people below the poverty line can help bring some checks onto this.

Initiative Towards Gender Equality

Any kind of discrimination acts as a roadblock in any nation’s growth, and a nation can only prosper when all its citizens have equal rights. Most of the developed countries has comparatively less gender discrimination and provide equal opportunity to both genders. Even the Indian government is taking multiple initiatives to cut down gender discrimination. 

They have initiated a social campaign called “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana” to encourage the education of girl children. Besides this, the government runs multiple other schemes, such as the Women Helpline Scheme, UJJAWALA, National Mission for Empowerment of Women, etc., to generate awareness among the people. Moreover, as responsible citizens, it is our responsibility to spread knowledge on gender discrimination to create a beautiful world for wome n [1] [2] .

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FAQs on Gender Equality Essay

1. What Makes Women Unequal to Men?

The social stigmas and beliefs that have been running deeply in the veins of all families make women unequal to men. Women are considered to be a burden by many families and are not provided with the same rights men enjoy in society. We are ill-informed regarding women’s rights and tend to continue age-old practices. This is made worse with social menaces such as the dowry system, child labor, child marriage, etc. Women can gather knowledge, get educated, and compete with men. This is sometimes quite threatening to the false patriarchal society.

2. How can We Promote Gender Equality?

Education is the prime measure to be taken to make society free from such menaces. When we teach our new generation regarding the best social practices and gender equal rights, we can eradicate such menaces aptly. Our society is ill-informed regarding gender equality and rights. Many policies have been designed and implemented by the government. As our country holds the second position in terms of population, it is hard to tackle these gender-based problems. It can only be erased from the deepest point by using education as the prime weapon.

3. Why should Women be Equal to Men?

Women might not be similar to men in terms of physical strength and physiological traits. Both are differently built biologically but they have the same brain and organs to function. Women these days are creating milestones that are changing society. They have traveled to space, running companies, creating history, and making everyone proud. Women are showing their capabilities in every phase and hence, they should be equal to men in all aspects.

4. Mention a few initiatives started by the Indian Government to enable gender equality.

The Indian government has initiated a social campaign called “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana” to encourage girls’ education. Besides this, the government runs multiple other schemes, such as the  Women Helpline Scheme, UJJAWALA, National Mission for Empowerment of Women, etc., to generate awareness among the people.

essay on gender equality

Gender Equality Essay: How to Inspire Action and Awareness

what is gender equality essay introduction

Writing about the importance of gender equality is crucial in shedding light on the inequalities and disparities that persist between men and women. These essays are like windows into our society, showing us the good and the bad. They're not just for school – they're about real people's lives. When we read and write about gender parity, we're shining a light on issues like discrimination and stereotypes, and we're saying, "Hey, this isn't right!" In this article, we will show you how to write an essay about gender equality to encourage your peers to think about making things more fair for everyone and standing up for what's right, making the world a better place for everyone.

Tips for Writing an Argumentative Essay About Gender Equality

First, let’s answer the question of what is gender equality essay? By definition, it is a written composition that investigates and discusses the concept of gender fairness, aiming to highlight the importance of fair treatment and opportunities for individuals regardless of gender. These essays typically explore historical contexts, societal norms, and contemporary disparities-related challenges, offering insights into how stereotypes, discrimination, and cultural expectations affect people based on gender. Moreover, such assignments seek to raise awareness and foster understanding, prompting readers to critically examine the necessity of creating a society where everyone, regardless of gender, enjoys equal rights, opportunities, and dignity.

At this point, we should write a gender equality essay thesis statement that will serve as the anchor, encapsulating the core argument and purpose of the essay. The thesis is a concise declaration that outlines the writer's stance on the topic and provides a roadmap for the essay's content. An effective thesis statement for a gender parity essay might assert the fundamental principle of equal rights and opportunities for all genders, emphasizing the need to challenge and dismantle societal norms perpetuating discrimination. For instance, a thesis statement could assert that achieving true balance requires dismantling stereotypes, promoting equal access to education and employment, and fostering a cultural shift toward recognizing the inherent value of every individual, irrespective of gender. The thesis statement acts as a guiding beacon, steering the essay in the direction of a comprehensive exploration of the chosen perspective on evenness. Suddenly forgot your task is due tomorrow? Don’t strain yourself, and use our argumentative essay service to achieve the best outcome fast.

Brainstorming Gender Equality Essay Topics

When looking for argumentative essay topics about gender equality, you can find inspiration in various places. Keep an eye on the news, social media discussions, and academic research to see what issues are currently being debated. Personal stories from people who've faced gender-related challenges or your own experiences can be powerful starting points. Understand how past events shaped gender dynamics or analyze how it is portrayed in literature and media. For your gender roles essay, you can analyze global perspectives, legal frameworks, and social movements for additional insights. By drawing from these diverse sources, you can brainstorm compelling arguments that not only tackle the complexities of gender equality but also connect with your audience on a personal and societal level. For your inspiration, we’ve prepared some peculiar ideas for gender equality in society essay, so check them out!

what is gender equality essay introduction

  • Workplace fairness for men and women.
  • Breaking boys and girls stereotypes in children's books.
  • The impact of inequality on mental health stigma.
  • Challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.
  • Addressing gender bias in healthcare.
  • The role of men in feminist movements.
  • Promoting inclusivity in sports teams.
  • Gender-neutral language in education.
  • Breaking the glass ceiling in corporate leadership.
  • Tackling gender-based violence in schools.

what is gender equality essay introduction

Gender Equality Essay Outline

Choosing a good title for a gender equality essay involves capturing the essay's main ideas and sparking interest. You can include keywords like "equality" or "empowerment" and use phrasing that makes readers think. For the gender equality essay thesis statement, keep it concise and clear. An example could be: "To achieve real fairness, we need to challenge stereotypes, ensure equal opportunities in education and work, and transform our culture to value everyone's contribution. Only through these comprehensive efforts can we create a society where everyone has a fair shot." Before we proceed to the essay’s outline, revise how many paragraphs in an argumentative essay and its length.

Gender Equality Essay Outline

Gender Equality Essay Introduction

To kick off your gender equality introduction essay effectively, start with something that grabs your reader's attention, like a quote, a surprising fact, or a relatable scenario. Next, give a quick background on what gender equality means today or historically, keeping it concise. Then, smoothly transition to your thesis statement – the main point you will argue in your essay. For example, you might say that real parity requires us to challenge stereotypes, make sure everyone has equal chances in education and work, and change our culture to value everyone's contributions. This approach helps your reader understand why the topic is important and what your essay is all about.

For the main body of a future gender equality essay, think about what could be coming up. Consider how new technology, like artificial intelligence, might affect how we see male and female roles. Talk about whether it might help break stereotypes or create new challenges. Give real examples or discuss policies that encourage women to take on roles in fields like technology.

Then, look into how work is changing and what that means for equality. Explore the idea of remote work, flexible schedules, and gig jobs and how they might create more equal opportunities. Discuss how companies or governments are making policies to support work-life balance and equal chances for leadership roles. Use examples to show where these progressive work practices are already happening and how they could impact equivalence in the future. Keep it real and forward-thinking, looking at the positives and potential challenges.

Gender Equality Essay Conclusion

To wrap up your essay, start by briefly restating your main point or thesis. Summarize the key ideas discussed in the essay's body, highlighting their importance in the context of gender equality. Don't bring in new information; instead, emphasize the connections between your arguments and the main point. Finish your gender equality conclusion essay on a strong note by inspiring your reader to consider the broader implications and take action toward achieving genuine parity in society. Keep it clear, concise, and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Essay Revision

To edit and proofread your gender equality essay introduction body and conclusion, start by reviewing the introduction to ensure clarity and conciseness. Verify that your thesis statement is strong and effectively communicates the main argument. Check the hook for its impact on grabbing the reader's attention. Moving to the body, focus on the logical flow of ideas between paragraphs. Confirm that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence, supporting evidence, and a smooth transition to the next. Pay attention to the coherence of your arguments and ensure they align with the overall thesis. Lastly, in the conclusion, restate the thesis, summarize key points, and end with a compelling call to action. Throughout the essay, check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors with the help of our paper writer , ensuring a polished and error-free final draft.

Gender Equality Essay Example

Please review our example of argumentative essay about gender equality to get inspired to produce your own brilliant essay. Remember that these two gender equality essay examples are not for submission because this will be considered plagarism. If you want equally engaging and insightful work, please say, ‘ write my essay ,’ so our experts can procure a new essay for you from scratch to avoid affecting your academic integrity.

Empowering Equality: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges

Gender equality stands as a fundamental principle for building a just and inclusive society. In recent years, progress has been made, but challenges persist. This essay delves into the multifaceted landscape of fairness, examining the importance of dismantling stereotypes, promoting equal opportunities, and fostering a cultural shift. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the pursuit of genuine equality emerges not only as a moral imperative but also as a critical driver of social and economic progress.

To achieve true equality, the first step involves challenging ingrained stereotypes that limit individuals based on their gender. Stereotypes perpetuate biased expectations, restricting both men and women to predefined roles. For instance, the persistent notion that certain professions are exclusively suited for one gender perpetuates inequality in the workplace. Initiatives promoting diverse role models, debunking myths, and redefining societal norms contribute to dismantling these stereotypes.

Ensuring equal opportunities in education and employment forms the cornerstone of equality. Educational institutions and workplaces must adopt policies that eliminate barriers and provide a level playing field. This involves addressing disparities in STEM education, encouraging girls to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields, and advocating for fair hiring practices. Achieving balance in educational and professional spheres fosters an environment where talent and capability, rather than gender, determine success.

A genuine cultural shift is imperative for achieving lasting equality. Cultural norms often perpetuate inequality, shaping attitudes and behaviors. Encouraging open conversations about gender, challenging discriminatory practices, and promoting inclusivity in all aspects of life contribute to this transformation. It requires collective efforts from communities, media, and policymakers to create a culture that respects and values individuals irrespective of their gender.

In conclusion, the journey toward gender fairness is a dynamic process that involves dismantling stereotypes, ensuring equal opportunities, and fostering cultural transformation. By challenging societal norms and advocating for inclusive policies, we can pave the way for a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, unbound by gender-based constraints. Empowering equality not only aligns with the principles of justice and fairness but also propels societies toward greater prosperity and harmony.

Breaking Chains: The Unfinished Journey Towards Gender Equality"

Gender equality, a beacon of progress in contemporary societies, still faces significant challenges, with deeply rooted stereotypes and systemic barriers hindering its realization. This essay embarks on an exploration of the persistent issues surrounding evenness, emphasizing the imperative to dismantle stereotypes, advocate for equal opportunities, and drive transformative change. As we confront the complexities of the 21st century, the pursuit of authentic equality emerges as not only a societal responsibility but also as an essential catalyst for fostering diversity, inclusivity, and social prosperity.

The journey toward true gender parity necessitates a concerted effort to challenge and dismantle age-old stereotypes that confine individuals within rigid male and female roles. These stereotypes perpetuate harmful biases, limiting opportunities for personal and professional growth. A critical focus should be on dispelling myths surrounding gendered expectations, such as the notion that certain professions are exclusively for one gender. Initiatives promoting diverse role models and challenging societal norms are pivotal in dismantling these restrictive stereotypes.

An indispensable component of achieving gender equality lies in advocating for equal opportunities in education. Educational institutions should implement policies that eradicate barriers and promote inclusivity. This involves addressing gender disparities in STEM fields, encouraging girls to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated sectors, and ensuring fair and unbiased educational environments. By cultivating an educational landscape that values competence over gender, societies can lay the foundation for a more equitable future.

Achieving genuine gender equality requires a holistic approach that includes systemic change at various levels of society. This involves not only addressing individual attitudes but also transforming institutional practices. Policies promoting equal pay, parental leave, and unbiased hiring practices contribute to dismantling systemic barriers. Additionally, fostering workplace cultures that prioritize diversity and inclusivity plays a crucial role in creating environments where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive.

In conclusion, the journey toward gender equality is an ongoing struggle that demands persistent efforts to dismantle stereotypes, advocate for equal opportunities, and drive systemic change. By challenging societal norms and fostering inclusive policies, societies can move closer to realizing the promise of a future where gender does not dictate one's opportunities or potential. Breaking the chains of ingrained biases is not just a societal obligation; it is a transformative endeavor that paves the way for a more just, inclusive, and harmonious world.

When students are assigned to write about gender equality, it isn't just about getting a grade. It's a valuable way to get young minds thinking and talking about how fairness and evenness play out in our world. By putting their thoughts into words, students not only practice expressing themselves but also become part of a bigger conversation about treating everyone fairly. Use this opportunity to challenge stereotypes, call for equal rights, and be a voice for positive change. To succeed, you can buy essay online from our competent writers, who will make sure your teacher will be pleased.

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Home » Home » Essay » Essay on gender equality (100, 200, 300, & 500 Words)

Essay on gender equality (100, 200, 300, & 500 Words)

Gender equality is a fundamental human right that promotes fairness and equal opportunities for individuals regardless of their gender. It encompasses the belief that everyone should have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities, regardless of their gender identity or expression. While significant strides have been made towards achieving gender equality, there is still a long way to go. This essay aims to address the importance of gender equality, its challenges, and strategies to promote it.

Essay on Gender Equality (100 Words)

Gender equality means treating everyone the same, no matter if they are a boy or a girl. It’s important because sometimes girls and boys are treated differently, and that’s not fair. For example, everyone should have the same chances to go to school, get a good job, and be happy. It’s wrong to think that boys are better at some things and girls are better at others. We should all be given the same chances to show what we can do. When everyone is treated equally, it’s good for the whole world.

Essay on Gender Equality (200 Words)

Gender equality is the idea that all people, whether they are boys or girls, should be treated the same. This is important because many times, girls and women are not given the same chances as boys and men. This is not fair and it needs to change. In many places, girls are not allowed to go to school or get good jobs. They are also paid less money for doing the same work.

But gender equality is not just a problem for girls and women. Boys and men are also hurt when we don’t have gender equality. Sometimes they are told they can’t do certain things because it’s not “manly.”

People can do many things to help make gender equality happen. Schools can teach kids that all people are equal and should be treated the same. Employers can make sure they give the same chances to everybody, no matter if they are male or female. Everyone can help by speaking up when they see something that is not fair.

Essay on Gender Equality (300 Words)

Gender equality is the idea that everyone should have the same rights, opportunities, and treatment, no matter if they are a man or a woman. It’s a basic human right, but it’s not the reality for many people around the world. Women often face more challenges and discrimination just because they are women. This includes less pay for the same job, less access to education, and less representation in government.

But gender equality is also good for men. Sometimes men are pressured to act tough or hide their feelings because that’s what society expects from them. This can be hard and unhealthy.

Changing this problem starts with education. Schools should teach children that all genders are equal and deserve the same chances in life. This education should continue into adulthood, in the workplace and the community.

Governments can also help by making laws that protect equal rights for everyone, no matter their gender. This can include things like equal pay for equal work, and making sure that both men and women have the same opportunities for education and jobs.

Even everyday actions can make a difference. If you see someone being treated unfairly because of their gender, speak up. Support companies that treat all employees fairly, and avoid those that don’t. Listen to people who have different experiences than you, and learn from them.

The fight for gender equality is a fight for basic human rights. It benefits everyone, not just women. And it’s a fight that involves all of us. By working together, we can create a world where everyone is treated fairly, no matter their gender.

Understanding Gender Equality

Defining gender.

Gender refers to the social roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female, as determined by society. It is distinct from biological sex, which is determined by physical attributes such as reproductive organs and chromosomes. Gender is a societal construct that perpetuates stereotypes, discrimination, and unequal power dynamics between sexes.

The Significance of Gender Equality

Gender equality is crucial for the overall development and wellbeing of individuals, communities, and nations. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their gender, has equal access to opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, and political participation. Gender equality fosters social justice, reduces poverty, and enhances economic growth. It empowers individuals to reach their full potential, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Challenges to Gender Equality

Despite the increasing awareness and efforts towards achieving gender equality, several challenges persist. Understanding these challenges is essential to formulate effective strategies to address them.

Gender Stereotypes and Discrimination

Societal norms often perpetuate gender stereotypes, ascribing certain qualities, roles, and behaviors to males and females. These stereotypes limit individual choices and opportunities, reinforcing gender discrimination. For example, the notion that women are primarily responsible for childcare and housework often hinders their career advancement. Similarly, men may face discrimination when pursuing careers traditionally associated with women, such as nursing or teaching.

Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and assault, remains a significant barrier to gender equality. Such violence affects individuals across all gender identities but disproportionately affects women and girls. It creates a climate of fear and insecurity, limiting their freedom, mobility, and access to education and employment opportunities.

Gender Pay Gap

The gender pay gap is another critical issue hindering gender equality. Women, on average, earn less than men for performing the same work. This pay disparity stems from various factors, including occupational segregation, bias in hiring and promotion practices, and the undervaluation of female-dominated professions. The gender pay gap perpetuates economic inequality and limits women’s financial independence and decision-making power.

Strategies to Promote Gender Equality

Addressing the challenges to gender equality requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, communities, governments, and organizations. The following strategies can help promote gender equality:

Education and Awareness

Promoting gender equality begins with education and awareness. Educational institutions should include gender equality in their curricula to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding. Providing comprehensive sex education can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. Furthermore, awareness campaigns can challenge societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender discrimination.

Legal Reforms

Legislation plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality. Governments should enact and enforce laws that protect individuals from gender-based violence, ensure equal pay for equal work, and promote women’s political representation. Legal reforms can create an enabling environment for gender equality and hold accountable those who perpetuate discrimination.

Empowering Women

Empowering women is a key component of achieving gender equality. This can be achieved through initiatives that provide equal access to education, skill-building opportunities, and support for entrepreneurship. Encouraging women’s leadership and participation in decision-making processes is essential to challenge existing power imbalances.

Engaging Men and Boys

Promoting gender equality requires engaging men and boys as allies. Men can contribute to dismantling patriarchal norms by challenging traditional gender roles, promoting equality within their families and communities, and speaking out against gender-based violence. By involving men and boys in gender equality initiatives, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all genders.

Corporate Responsibility

Companies and organizations should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality through their policies and practices. This includes promoting diversity and inclusion, implementing fair hiring and promotion processes, and providing family-friendly workplace policies such as parental leave and flexible working arrangements. By addressing gender biases within the workplace, organizations can foster a more equitable and inclusive environment.

Gender equality is a fundamental human right that benefits individuals, communities, and societies as a whole. Achieving gender equality requires collective efforts to challenge stereotypes, address discrimination, and promote equal opportunities. By implementing comprehensive strategies that encompass education, legal reforms, empowerment, and engagement of all genders, we can create a more just and inclusive world. It is our responsibility to work towards a society where everyone, regardless of their gender, can enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

1. What is gender equality?

Gender equality refers to the belief that everyone should have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities, regardless of their gender identity or expression.

2. Why is gender equality important?

Gender equality is important because it promotes fairness and equal opportunities for individuals, contributing to their overall development and well-being. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their gender, has equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and political participation, fostering social justice and reducing poverty.

3. What are the challenges to gender equality?

Some of the challenges to gender equality include gender stereotypes and discrimination, which limit individual choices and opportunities. Additionally, gender-based violence, such as domestic violence and sexual harassment, remains a significant barrier to achieving gender equality.

4. Who does gender-based violence disproportionately affect?

Gender-based violence disproportionately affects women and girls, although it can affect individuals across all gender identities.

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Essay on Gender Equality

Students are often asked to write an essay on Gender Equality in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Gender Equality

Understanding gender equality.

Gender equality means that all genders have the same rights and opportunities. It’s about respecting everyone, regardless of whether they’re a boy or a girl.

Why is Gender Equality Important?

Gender equality is important because everyone deserves to be treated fairly. It helps us learn from each other and grow as a society. Without it, we miss out on the talents and skills of half the population.

How Can We Achieve Gender Equality?

We can achieve gender equality by treating everyone equally, regardless of their gender. This includes giving everyone the same opportunities in education, work, and life. It’s about fairness and respect.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on Gender Equality

Introduction.

Gender equality, a cornerstone of social justice, is more than a fundamental human right. It’s a prerequisite for a sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous world. It calls for equal opportunities and benefits for both men and women, challenging traditional norms that perpetuate inequality.

The Imperative of Gender Equality

Gender equality is not just about fairness but also about harnessing the untapped potential of half the world’s population. It’s about acknowledging the fact that men and women, despite their biological differences, are equally capable of contributing to society. The exclusion or marginalization of any gender hinders societal progress.

Challenges to Gender Equality

Despite strides made, gender inequality persists. Discriminatory laws, gender stereotypes, and institutional biases continue to impede gender equality. Women, for instance, often face wage gaps, underrepresentation in leadership positions, and disproportionate burden of unpaid care work.

The Path to Gender Equality

Achieving gender equality requires systemic changes. It starts with education, promoting gender-sensitive curricula to dismantle harmful stereotypes. Legal reforms are also crucial for ensuring equal rights and opportunities. Additionally, institutions must foster an environment that promotes gender diversity and inclusion.

Gender equality is not a women’s issue, but a human issue. It affects us all. The journey towards gender equality is complex and challenging, but it’s a journey worth taking. As we strive for a more equitable world, we must remember that every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to this goal.

500 Words Essay on Gender Equality

Gender equality, also known as sexual equality or equality of the sexes, is the state of equal ease of access to resources and opportunities, irrespective of gender. It is a critical aspect of a just and democratic society, and its importance cannot be overstated. This essay explores the concept of gender equality, its implications, and the role of society in achieving it.

The Concept of Gender Equality

Implications of gender equality.

Gender equality has far-reaching implications. Economically, it can lead to increased productivity and economic growth. According to the World Economic Forum, reducing the gender gap in employment could result in a GDP increase of up to 16% in some countries. Socially, gender equality can lead to healthier and more educated families, and it can promote peace and reduce violence. Politically, it can lead to more representative and effective governance.

Despite the clear benefits of gender equality, numerous challenges persist. Socio-cultural norms and beliefs often uphold gender inequality, making it difficult to change attitudes and behaviors. Moreover, institutional structures and practices can reinforce gender disparities. For instance, women are often underrepresented in leadership positions, and they are more likely to experience poverty and violence.

The Role of Society in Achieving Gender Equality

In conclusion, gender equality is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of a just and democratic society. It has vast implications for economic growth, social wellbeing, and political effectiveness. While challenges persist, through education, legal reform, and individual action, we can work towards a more equal and just society. The path to gender equality may be long and fraught with obstacles, but it is a journey that we must undertake for the betterment of our society and future generations.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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How to write a powerful gender equality essay in 2020.

Gender Equality Essay

Raise the question of whether men and women have the same rights, and you’ll have evoked many to speak. That is why there are so many writings on gender equality. Every side is trying to champion for its rights, survival for the fittest it is.

However, what will make your gender equality essay outstanding from the millions of articles available on the internet and in print? That is the hidden secret we are going to dissect bit by bit in this article. So, please keep your eyes peeled because it is a secret, and not many people are entitled to a secret.

Defining Gender Equality

Before proceeding any further, let us first have an understanding of this term and how it is relevant to society today.

Since time immemorial, society has embraced male chauvinism. Equality between men and women has been seen as an almost impossible thing. It is like asking President Donald Trump to quit twitter.

All the best things in life are considered to be for men — talk of education, innovations, white-collar jobs, and even the latest car models. The place of women over the years has been in the kitchen and childbearing.

However, with the championing of gender equality, both men and women are seen as having the same roles and responsibilities in society. Women can now own Companies, drive Porsche vehicles, and even lead countries as presidents.

Let’s get back to our gender equality essay now. When writing an essay on whether man and woman should have equal rights, there are vital considerations that you will have to incorporate.

We will look at them based on the structure of a typical essay.

To start us off, we’ll look at all you need to know about the topic of an essay on gender discrimination.

All you Need to Know About Gender Inequality

The subject of gender inequality is an ocean of ideas. The topic you choose should, therefore, be one that comprehensively deals with one aspect.

It has to be impressive enough and provoke the reader to delve deep into the body to satisfy the curiosity created.

Here are sample gender topics to write about for your gender equality essay:

  • How is gender equality in Western countries compared to Africa?
  • What is the history of gender equality?
  • Should men and women have equal rights?
  • How are women discriminated against in society?
  • What is the role of UN agencies in gender equality?

The next part is the introduction of a gender issues essay.

Writing the Introduction

The format for an essay introduction remains; the topic sentence, outlining sentences, and the thesis statement. In the gender inequality thesis statement, ensure that you give the main idea of your essay.

As a writer, you should be able to articulate whether your introduction is worth someone’s time or not. Having a captivating introduction for your gender equality essay will act as bait to have the reader’s attention.

For instance, you are talking about equality in education; you can have the following introduction:

Gender discrimination has deprived women of their right to education. Instead of women attending school, they are left at home to fend for the babies and perform house chores. However, both men and women should be given equal access rights to education without undermining the other.”

One can be able to see that the writer is going to champion equality in education, especially on the part of women. Such is how you can structure your introduction paragraph of gender equality related essay.

But here’s the catch.

It is where the writer gets to argue out his or her thesis statement in paragraphs. The pieces of evidence are given in the body to affirm the writer’s point of view. It uses supporting evidence such as facts, statistics, real-life examples, and analysis.

Such a topic as gender equality is broad, and thus the body might be longer. However, you should use the three-body paragraph structure to make your essay succinct and enticing. Remember that too much is boring and short is sweet.

To write the body swiftly, ensure that you brainstorm and have your points well outlined first. It will save you the agony of having to scratch your head for nothing. You might end up pulling your hair for goodness sake.

And if that’s not enough, here’s one more crucial part.

Concluding your Gender Equality Essay

Essays on gender equality also have the same structure for the conclusion. It gives a summary of the arguments made in the body using one sentence or two. On top of providing an abstract of the discussion, it also restates the thesis statement.

Bonus: Free Tips to Guide Your Gender Essay Writing

  • Consult a variety of sources on sensitive issues.
  • Avoid statements that may provoke one side.
  • Maintain objectivity at all times.
  • Ensure that you extensively cover every argument in the body
  • Have a structure before you start writing your essay.
  • Proof-read your work before submission.

And with that, good luck with writing your gender equality essay. Do not leave anything to chance, from the topic, introduction, body, to the conclusion. Every section counts!

Was this article helpful? Then why don’t you try our expert writing masters with any of your essay assignment today? You won’t regret it one single bit.

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Gender Equality Essay

500+ words gender equality essay.

Every citizen has the right to live their life according to their wish without any discrimination. It can be achieved when all individuals are considered equal irrespective of caste, religion, language, colour, profession, status and sex. The most prominent discrimination that we observe is gender inequality. Even in many developed countries, we see several examples of gender bias, which need to be urgently addressed. Gender equality can only be achieved when both males and females are treated equally. With the help of this essay on Gender Equality, students will know what gender equality is and how it can be achieved in society. This essay will also provide an overview of the different types of problems women face due to gender discrimination.

Gender Equality

Gender equality refers to equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities for both women and men. It implies that the interests, needs and priorities of both women and men are taken into consideration, recognizing the diversity of different groups of women and men. Worldwide, women’s fundamental rights continue to be violated, and they face discrimination in access to education, work, social protection, inheritance, economic assets, productive resources, and participation in decision-making and society. Women spend two to ten times more time on unpaid work than men, which is one of the main obstacles to economic and political empowerment.

Persistent differences and disparities between men and women have negative implications for society as a whole. Women represent half the resources and half the potential in any society. This potential remains unrealized when women are constrained by inequality and discrimination. Many gender disparities emerge in early childhood and intensify in adolescence. Girls are deprived of access to health care or proper nutrition, leading to a higher mortality rate. As they move into the age of adolescence, gender disparities widen. Child marriage affects girls far more than boys. Globally, nearly 15 million girls under age 18 are married every year. It’s difficult for them to access education. Girls still face barriers to entry into primary and secondary school. The lack of education provided limits access to skills and jobs in good organisations and at reputed posts.

How to Achieve Gender Equality in India?

Women’s and girls’ education is a vital component that helps in gender equality. By obtaining proper education, the door to many new opportunities will open up for women. They get skilled and can easily find employment. Employment will empower them and give them financial independence, alternative sources of social identity, and exposure to power structures independent of kin networks. It will give them the independence to make decisions of their own choice. The path of gender equality can be further reduced at work by reducing the gender pay, earnings and pension gaps.

Another crucial step towards gender equality is eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls in public and private spheres. Apart from it, it is essential to eliminate all harmful practices by society, such as early and forced marriage, the dowry system, etc. We should try to make our environment and surroundings more safe and healthy for women and girls.

Women should try to come into power through leadership roles in all sectors. This will increase the presence of women in different fields and motivate other women and girls. Power in the hands of women will ensure their full and effective participation at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life. Women’s equal rights to economic resources also promote gender rquality. They get access to ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance, and natural resources through this right.

India ranks 112 in the Global Gender Gap index among 153 countries. Due to this, the Government has also taken various steps to promote Gender Equality. They launch various women empowerment schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, One Stop Centre Scheme, Women Helpline Scheme, UJJAWALA, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, National Mission for Empowerment of Women etc.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Gender Equality Essay

What are the main indexes to measure gender inequality.

According to the World Health Organization, the Gender Inequality Index indicates disparities in three main aspects as given below: 1. Reproductive health: The health dimension is measured by the maternal mortality ratio and the adolescent fertility rate.

2. Empowerment: The empowerment dimension is measured by the share of parliamentary seats held by each gender, and by secondary and higher education attainment levels.

3. Labour market: The labour dimension is measured by women’s participation in the workforce.

How can we improve gender equality?

1. Educate girls: The government should take steps to ensure that girls get equal opportunities in the education system. This can be done by giving scholarships, sensitising parents, ensuring amenities like toilets, etc.

2. Allow women to have equal economic rights: Women should be given equal pay for equal work in the employment sector.

3. Avoid violence and sexual harassment against women: Laws should be enacted and strictly enforced to prevent violence and sexual harassment against women

4. Spread awareness about child marriage: Social evils like child marriage can be eradicated from society by raising awareness about their ill effects on the social, physical and emotional well-being of girls.

How to help children understand this issue?

Awareness programmes and campaigns can be organised to sensitise society about the negative effects of gender inequality. After all, no society can progress by ignoring the rights of half of its population, which is made up of women. Governments should ensure that boys and girls are treated equally in schools. Students must be taught how to mutually respect each other.

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The Progress of Gender Equality Essay

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Introduction

Global dimension, national dimension, self reflection.

Gender equality entails receiving equal treatment to realize social justice and equity; Holtmaat (2012) pointed out that gender equality is crucial in the realization of decent work for all people. According to Holtmaat (2012), decent work entails equal treatment in the different areas of work, social security, political and economic representation. Gender equality is a key indicator of development. The progress of gender equality across the globe has changed since the Fourth World Conference on Women that led to the Beijing Declaration. The following paper reviews the progress of gender equality at the global and national levels.

Gender equality has remarkably improved to the point of a relatively inclusive society at the global level. The progress varies based on the county’s level of development. For instance, in developed countries, there have been high levels of social justice and equity. The progress of gender equality across the globe is based on the reinforcement of the human rights recommendations passed at the Beijing Conference. The key achievements have been the removal of all forms of discrimination against women, the promotion of legal literacy, education, and the general protection of the rights of women (Banda, 2015).

The Gender Chart of 2015 shows that there has been remarkable progress in the areas of education, maternal mortality, and increased participation of women in development imperatives. For example, in developed countries, there are no literacy gaps between men and women. In the developing countries, the literacy gaps among the youth have reduced significantly, and there is positive progress of reduced stereotyping of women at the places of work.

Despite the progress, the main challenges at the global level have been the failure to understand what the phrase ‘gender equality’ connotes. Religious groups such as the Holy See define gender in terms of biological sexual identity; thus, failing to realize the absolute equality of men and women (Banda, 2015). Also, the other challenge has been the failure by States, especially in developing countries to abide by the provisions of the Beijing Declaration, which has resulted in discrimination of women based on customs and cultural practices that undermine the full realization of gender equality.

UAE has made great strides on gender equality; according to Samir (2016), the progress can be attributed to the legal framework of UAE. The constitution enshrines that there should be equal treatment of all citizens. The constitution has created a platform in which women have equal access to education, decent work environment, political, and economic representation. For instance, the literacy levels for both men and woman is 95% with more women completing secondary education compared to men (Samir, 2016). Besides, 95% of the people who complete secondary education join tertiary level education.

Despite the principle of equal treatment of all citizens, still, there are remaining challenges that hinder social justice and equity in UAE. The laws still reinforce traditional gender roles. For example, the law still identifies women as mothers and wives, which limit their progression in the work area and confines them to the homes (Social Institute & Gender Index, 2014).

There have been great social-cultural and legal changes that have been witnessed in UAE; as a result, there has been an expanded space where all young people regardless of sex have access to social, economic, and political positions. The legal measures that uphold the equality of all citizens have reduced gender stereotypes that in the past affected women negatively. As a young person growing up in UAE, I feel that this has had a positive role in my progression and self-identity. Looking at the future, I feel that society will not describe me based on my gender orientation; I see a liberated society in which the autonomy of either gender is respected. Thus, I feel more like the other young people, than we are unalike.

Banda, F. (2015). Achievements and challenges in gender equality in international human rights law: The last twenty years. Geneva: United Nations Research Institute for Social Development.

Holtmaat, R. (2012). The UN convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women: A commentary . Oxford: University Press.

Samir, S. (2016). UAE leader in gender equality in region . Gulf News . Web.

Social Institute & Gender Index. (2014). United Arab Emirates . Web.

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gender equality , condition of parity regardless of an individual’s gender . Gender equality addresses the tendency to ascribe, in various settings across societies, different roles and status to individuals on the basis of gender. In this context , the term gender generally refers to an individual’s gender identity (e.g., male, female, or neither) or to a person’s gender role , which is the manifestation of one’s gender identity. Gender is not necessarily associated with the anatomical sex of an individual. Accordingly, the term gender equality is sometimes also used to mean “universal equality irrespective of gender, sex, or sexuality .”

The manifestation of gender inequality is multidimensional. It may be apparent, for example, in employment experience, in educational opportunity, or in health. Interpretations for the existence of such problems span a broad spectrum. They include essentialist arguments (including those from biological reductionism and evolutionary psychology), whereby an individual’s experience in society is a reflection of discrimination based on innate biological or physiological and psychological sex differences. Cultural accounts of gender inequality generally claim that individuals are herded into different or unequally valued roles because of constructed social norms.

Attempts to address gender inequality have focused primarily on equal-treatment policy approaches. Gender mainstreaming, for example, relates to the systematic incorporation of gender issues at both the planning and the implementation stages of organizational policies. For some forms of gender inequality, such as professional inequality, the major debate lies in the degree to which individuals should be granted special provisions and exclusive benefits to equalize background conditions. Such provisions may take the form of affirmative action programs that aim to implement specific measures to boost an individual’s chances of success in employment and specific protection rights such as paid family leave with a right to return to work. In such approaches, the emphasis shifts from equality of access and opportunity to creating conditions deemed more likely to result in equality of outcome. Skeptics of such approaches grapple with the extent to which exclusive benefits lend themselves to the exacerbation of gender divides without the comparable provision of benefits for persons who identify with a different gender.

Gender Inequality Essay

500+ words essay on gender inequality.

For many years, the dominant gender has been men while women were the minority. It was mostly because men earned the money and women looked after the house and children. Similarly, they didn’t have any rights as well. However, as time passed by, things started changing slowly. Nonetheless, they are far from perfect. Gender inequality remains a serious issue in today’s time. Thus, this gender inequality essay will highlight its impact and how we can fight against it.

gender inequality essay

  About Gender Inequality Essay

Gender inequality refers to the unequal and biased treatment of individuals on the basis of their gender. This inequality happens because of socially constructed gender roles. It happens when an individual of a specific gender is given different or disadvantageous treatment in comparison to a person of the other gender in the same circumstance.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Impact of Gender Inequality

The biggest problem we’re facing is that a lot of people still see gender inequality as a women’s issue. However, by gender, we refer to all genders including male, female, transgender and others.

When we empower all genders especially the marginalized ones, they can lead their lives freely. Moreover, gender inequality results in not letting people speak their minds. Ultimately, it hampers their future and compromises it.

History is proof that fighting gender inequality has resulted in stable and safe societies. Due to gender inequality, we have a gender pay gap. Similarly, it also exposes certain genders to violence and discrimination.

In addition, they also get objectified and receive socioeconomic inequality. All of this ultimately results in severe anxiety, depression and even low self-esteem. Therefore, we must all recognize that gender inequality harms genders of all kinds. We must work collectively to stop these long-lasting consequences and this gender inequality essay will tell you how.

How to Fight Gender Inequality

Gender inequality is an old-age issue that won’t resolve within a few days. Similarly, achieving the goal of equality is also not going to be an easy one. We must start by breaking it down and allow it time to go away.

Firstly, we must focus on eradicating this problem through education. In other words, we must teach our young ones to counter gender stereotypes from their childhood.

Similarly, it is essential to ensure that they hold on to the very same beliefs till they turn old. We must show them how sports are not gender-biased.

Further, we must promote equality in the fields of labour. For instance, some people believe that women cannot do certain jobs like men. However, that is not the case. We can also get celebrities on board to promote and implant the idea of equality in people’s brains.

All in all, humanity needs men and women to continue. Thus, inequality will get us nowhere. To conclude the gender inequality essay, we need to get rid of the old-age traditions and mentality. We must teach everyone, especially the boys all about equality and respect. It requires quite a lot of work but it is possible. We can work together and achieve equal respect and opportunities for all genders alike.

FAQ of Gender Inequality Essay

Question 1: What is gender inequality?

Answer 1: Gender inequality refers to the unequal and biased treatment of individuals on the basis of their gender. This inequality happens because of socially constructed gender roles. It happens when an individual of a specific gender is given different or disadvantageous treatment in comparison to a person of the other gender in the same circumstance.

Question 2: How does gender inequality impact us?

Answer 2:  The gender inequality essay tells us that gender inequality impacts us badly. It takes away opportunities from deserving people. Moreover, it results in discriminatory behaviour towards people of a certain gender. Finally, it also puts people of a certain gender in dangerous situations.

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What does gender equality look like today?

Date: Wednesday, 6 October 2021

Progress towards gender equality is looking bleak. But it doesn’t need to.

A new global analysis of progress on gender equality and women’s rights shows women and girls remain disproportionately affected by the socioeconomic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, struggling with disproportionately high job and livelihood losses, education disruptions and increased burdens of unpaid care work. Women’s health services, poorly funded even before the pandemic, faced major disruptions, undermining women’s sexual and reproductive health. And despite women’s central role in responding to COVID-19, including as front-line health workers, they are still largely bypassed for leadership positions they deserve.

UN Women’s latest report, together with UN DESA, Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The Gender Snapshot 2021 presents the latest data on gender equality across all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The report highlights the progress made since 2015 but also the continued alarm over the COVID-19 pandemic, its immediate effect on women’s well-being and the threat it poses to future generations.

We’re breaking down some of the findings from the report, and calling for the action needed to accelerate progress.

The pandemic is making matters worse

One and a half years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, the toll on the poorest and most vulnerable people remains devastating and disproportionate. The combined impact of conflict, extreme weather events and COVID-19 has deprived women and girls of even basic needs such as food security. Without urgent action to stem rising poverty, hunger and inequality, especially in countries affected by conflict and other acute forms of crisis, millions will continue to suffer.

A global goal by global goal reality check:

Goal 1. Poverty

Globally, 1 in 5 girls under 15 are growing up in extreme poverty.

In 2021, extreme poverty is on the rise and progress towards its elimination has reversed. An estimated 435 million women and girls globally are living in extreme poverty.

And yet we can change this .

Over 150 million women and girls could emerge from poverty by 2030 if governments implement a comprehensive strategy to improve access to education and family planning, achieve equal wages and extend social transfers.

Goal 2. Zero hunger

Small-scale farmer households headed by women earn on average 30% less than those headed by men.

The global gender gap in food security has risen dramatically during the pandemic, with more women and girls going hungry. Women’s food insecurity levels were 10 per cent higher than men’s in 2020, compared with 6 per cent higher in 2019.

This trend can be reversed , including by supporting women small-scale producers, who typically earn far less than men, through increased funding, training and land rights reforms.

Goal 3. Good health and well-being

In the first year of the pandemic, there were an estimated additional 1.4 million additional unintended pregnancies in lower- and middle-income countries.

Disruptions in essential health services due to COVID-19 are taking a tragic toll on women and girls. In the first year of the pandemic, there were an estimated 1.4 million additional unintended pregnancies in lower and middle-income countries.

We need to do better .

Response to the pandemic must include prioritizing sexual and reproductive health services, ensuring they continue to operate safely now and after the pandemic is long over. In addition, more support is needed to ensure life-saving personal protection equipment, tests, oxygen and especially vaccines are available in rich and poor countries alike as well as to vulnerable population within countries.

Goal 4. Quality education

Half of all refugee girls enrolled in secondary school before the pandemic will not return to school.

A year and a half into the pandemic, schools remain partially or fully closed in 42 per cent of the world’s countries and territories. School closures spell lost opportunities for girls and an increased risk of violence, exploitation and early marriage .

Governments can do more to protect girls education .

Measures focused specifically on supporting girls returning to school are urgently needed, including measures focused on girls from marginalized communities who are most at risk.

Goal 5. Gender equality

Women are restricted from working in certain jobs or industries in almost 50% of countries.

The pandemic has tested and even reversed progress in expanding women’s rights and opportunities. Reports of violence against women and girls, a “shadow” pandemic to COVID-19, are increasing in many parts of the world. COVID-19 is also intensifying women’s workload at home, forcing many to leave the labour force altogether.

Building forward differently and better will hinge on placing women and girls at the centre of all aspects of response and recovery, including through gender-responsive laws, policies and budgeting.

Goal 6. Clean water and sanitation

Only 26% of countries are actively working on gender mainstreaming in water management.

In 2018, nearly 2.3 billion people lived in water-stressed countries. Without safe drinking water, adequate sanitation and menstrual hygiene facilities, women and girls find it harder to lead safe, productive and healthy lives.

Change is possible .

Involve those most impacted in water management processes, including women. Women’s voices are often missing in water management processes. 

Goal 7. Affordable and clean energy

Only about 1 in 10 senior managers in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry is a woman.

Increased demand for clean energy and low-carbon solutions is driving an unprecedented transformation of the energy sector. But women are being left out. Women hold only 32 per cent of renewable energy jobs.

We can do better .

Expose girls early on to STEM education, provide training and support to women entering the energy field, close the pay gap and increase women’s leadership in the energy sector.

Goal 8. Decent work and economic growth

In 2020 employed women fell by 54 million. Women out of the labour force rose by 45 million.

The number of employed women declined by 54 million in 2020 and 45 million women left the labour market altogether. Women have suffered steeper job losses than men, along with increased unpaid care burdens at home.

We must do more to support women in the workforce .

Guarantee decent work for all, introduce labour laws/reforms, removing legal barriers for married women entering the workforce, support access to affordable/quality childcare.

Goal 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Just 4% of clinical studies on COVID-19 treatments considered sex and/or gender in their research

The COVID-19 crisis has spurred striking achievements in medical research and innovation. Women’s contribution has been profound. But still only a little over a third of graduates in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics field are female.

We can take action today.

 Quotas mandating that a proportion of research grants are awarded to women-led teams or teams that include women is one concrete way to support women researchers. 

Goal 10. Reduced inequalities

While in transit to their new destination, 53% of migrant women report experiencing or witnessing violence, compared to 19% of men.

Limited progress for women is being eroded by the pandemic. Women facing multiple forms of discrimination, including women and girls with disabilities, migrant women, women discriminated against because of their race/ethnicity are especially affected.

Commit to end racism and discrimination in all its forms, invest in inclusive, universal, gender responsive social protection systems that support all women. 

Goal 11. Sustainable cities and communities

Slum residents are at an elevated risk of COVID-19 infection and fatality rates. In many countries, women are overrepresented in urban slums.

Globally, more than 1 billion people live in informal settlements and slums. Women and girls, often overrepresented in these densely populated areas, suffer from lack of access to basic water and sanitation, health care and transportation.

The needs of urban poor women must be prioritized .

Increase the provision of durable and adequate housing and equitable access to land; included women in urban planning and development processes.

Goal 12. Sustainable consumption and production; Goal 13. Climate action; Goal 14. Life below water; and Goal 15. Life on land

Women are finding solutions for our ailing planet, but are not given the platforms they deserve. Only 29% of featured speakers at international ocean science conferences are women.

Women activists, scientists and researchers are working hard to solve the climate crisis but often without the same platforms as men to share their knowledge and skills. Only 29 per cent of featured speakers at international ocean science conferences are women.

 And yet we can change this .

Ensure women activists, scientists and researchers have equal voice, representation and access to forums where these issues are being discussed and debated. 

Goal 16. Peace, justice and strong institutions

Women's unequal decision-making power undermines development at every level. Women only chair 18% of government committees on foreign affairs, defence and human rights.

The lack of women in decision-making limits the reach and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergency recovery efforts. In conflict-affected countries, 18.9 per cent of parliamentary seats are held by women, much lower than the global average of 25.6 per cent.

This is unacceptable .

It's time for women to have an equal share of power and decision-making at all levels.

Goal 17. Global partnerships for the goals

Women are not being sufficiently prioritized in country commitments to achieving the SDGs, including on Climate Action. Only 64 out of 190 of nationally determined contributions to climate goals referred to women.

There are just 9 years left to achieve the Global Goals by 2030, and gender equality cuts across all 17 of them. With COVID-19 slowing progress on women's rights, the time to act is now.

Looking ahead

As it stands today, only one indicator under the global goal for gender equality (SDG5) is ‘close to target’: proportion of seats held by women in local government. In other areas critical to women’s empowerment, equality in time spent on unpaid care and domestic work and decision making regarding sexual and reproductive health the world is far from target. Without a bold commitment to accelerate progress, the global community will fail to achieve gender equality. Building forward differently and better will require placing women and girls at the centre of all aspects of response and recovery, including through gender-responsive laws, policies and budgeting.

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Education and gender equality

Gender equality and education

Gender equality is a global priority at UNESCO. Globally, 122 million girls and 128 million boys are out of school. Women still account for almost two-thirds of all adults unable to read.

UNESCO calls for attention to gender equality throughout the education system in relation to access, content, teaching and learning context and practices, learning outcomes, and life and work opportunities. The  UNESCO Strategy for gender equality in and through education (2019-2025)  focuses on a system-wide transformation to benefit all learners equally in three key areas: better data to inform action, better legal and policy frameworks to advance rights and better teaching and learning practices to empower. 

What you need to know about education and gender equality

"her education, our future" documentary film.

Released on 7 March for 2024 International Women’s Day, “Her Education, Our Future” is a documentary film following the lives of Anee, Fabiana, Mkasi and Tainá – four young women across three continents who struggle to fulfill their right to education. 

This documentary film offers a spectacular dive into the transformative power of education and showcases how empowering girls and women through education improves not only their lives, but also those of their families, communities and indeed all of society. 

tmb-her-education-our-future-trailer

Global Accountability Dashboard

The Global Accountability Dashboard is a one stop resource that monitors country progress against key indicators on gender-transformative education, spotlights actions taken by governments and their partners, and provides an evidence hub of initiatives and good practices from 193 countries.

The Dashboard is supported by the Global Platform for Gender Equality and Girls’ and Women’s Empowerment in and through Education , a multi-stakeholder partnership emerging from the 2022 Transforming Education Summit. It complements and deepens the Summit’s Dashboard of Country Commitments and Action to Transform Education. 

Global Platform for Gender Equality, in and through Education

Key figures

of which 122 million are girls and 128 million are boys

of which 56% are women

for every 100 young women

Empowering communities: UNESCO in action

Schoolgirls Education

Keeping girls in the picture

Everyone can play a role in supporting girls’ education

UNESCO’s new drive to accelerate action for girls’ and women’s education

2022 GEM Report Gender Report: Deepening the debate on those still left behind

Capacity building tools

  • From access to empowerment: operational tools to advance gender equality in and through education
  • Communication strategy: UNESCO guidance on communicating on gender equality in and through education
  • Communication tools
  • Keeping girls in the picture: youth advocacy toolkit
  • Keeping girls in the picture: community radio toolkit

Gender in education capacity building

Monitoring SDG 4: equity and inclusion in education

Resources from UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring Report.

Related items

  • Gender equality
  • Policy Advice
  • Girls education
  • See more add

Human Rights Careers

5 Essays to Learn More About Equality

“Equality” is one of those words that seems simple, but is more complicated upon closer inspection. At its core, equality can be defined as “the state of being equal.” When societies value equality, their goals include racial, economic, and gender equality . Do we really know what equality looks like in practice? Does it mean equal opportunities, equal outcomes, or both? To learn more about this concept, here are five essays focusing on equality:

“The Equality Effect” (2017) – Danny Dorling

In this essay, professor Danny Dorling lays out why equality is so beneficial to the world. What is equality? It’s living in a society where everyone gets the same freedoms, dignity, and rights. When equality is realized, a flood of benefits follows. Dorling describes the effect of equality as “magical.” Benefits include happier and healthier citizens, less crime, more productivity, and so on. Dorling believes the benefits of “economically equitable” living are so clear, change around the world is inevitable. Despite the obvious conclusion that equality creates a better world, progress has been slow. We’ve become numb to inequality. Raising awareness of equality’s benefits is essential.

Danny Dorling is the Halford Mackinder Professor of Geography at the University of Oxford. He has co-authored and authored a handful of books, including Slowdown: The End of the Great Acceleration—and Why It’s Good for the Planet, the Economy, and Our Lives . “The Equality Effect” is excerpted from this book. Dorling’s work focuses on issues like health, education, wealth, poverty, and employment.

“The Equality Conundrum” (2020) – Joshua Rothman

Originally published as “Same Difference” in the New Yorker’s print edition, this essay opens with a story. A couple plans on dividing their money equally among their children. However, they realize that to ensure equal success for their children, they might need to start with unequal amounts. This essay digs into the complexity of “equality.” While inequality is a major concern for people, most struggle to truly define it. Citing lectures, studies, philosophy, religion, and more, Rothman sheds light on the fact that equality is not a simple – or easy – concept.

Joshua Rothman has worked as a writer and editor of The New Yorker since 2012. He is the ideas editor of newyorker.com.

“Why Understanding Equity vs Equality in Schools Can Help You Create an Inclusive Classroom” (2019) – Waterford.org

Equality in education is critical to society. Students that receive excellent education are more likely to succeed than students who don’t. This essay focuses on the importance of equity, which means giving support to students dealing with issues like poverty, discrimination and economic injustice. What is the difference between equality and equity? What are some strategies that can address barriers? This essay is a great introduction to the equity issues teachers face and why equity is so important.

Waterford.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving equity and education in the United States. It believes that the educational experiences children receive are crucial for their future. Waterford.org was founded by Dr. Dustin Heuston.

“What does equality mean to me?” (2020) – Gabriela Vivacqua and Saddal Diab

While it seems simple, the concept of equality is complex. In this piece posted by WFP_Africa on the WFP’s Insight page, the authors ask women from South Sudan what equality means to them. Half of South Sudan’s population consists of women and girls. Unequal access to essentials like healthcare, education, and work opportunities hold them back. Complete with photographs, this short text gives readers a glimpse into interpretations of equality and what organizations like the World Food Programme are doing to tackle gender inequality.

As part of the UN, the World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization focusing on hunger and food security . It provides food assistance to over 80 countries each year.

“Here’s How Gender Equality is Measured” (2020) – Catherine Caruso

Gender inequality is one of the most discussed areas of inequality. Sobering stats reveal that while progress has been made, the world is still far from realizing true gender equality. How is gender equality measured? This essay refers to the Global Gender Gap report ’s factors. This report is released each year by the World Economic Forum. The four factors are political empowerment, health and survival, economic participation and opportunity, and education. The author provides a brief explanation of each factor.

Catherine Caruso is the Editorial Intern at Global Citizen, a movement committed to ending extreme poverty by 2030. Previously, Caruso worked as a writer for Inquisitr. Her English degree is from Syracuse University. She writes stories on health, the environment, and citizenship.

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Gender Equality

The unfinished business of our time.

Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and, therefore, also half of its potential. Gender equality, besides being a fundamental human right, is essential to achieve peaceful societies, with full human potential and sustainable development. Moreover, it has been shown that empowering women spurs productivity and economic growth.

Unfortunately, there is still a long way to go to achieve full equality of rights and opportunities between men and women, warns UN Women. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to end the multiple forms of gender violence and secure equal access to quality education and health, economic resources and participation in political life for both women and girls and men and boys. It is also essential to achieve equal opportunities in access to employment and to positions of leadership and decision-making at all levels.

Guterres highlights that gender equality is more important than ever if we are to create prosperous economies and a healthy planet. However, he admits that we face a critical challenge: an alarming $360 billion annual gender gap by 2030.

To revert this trend, he has identified five key areas that need joint action: Investing in women, ending poverty, implementing gender-responsive financing, shifting to a green economy and care society and supporting feminist change-makers.

The UN Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres has stated that achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls is the unfinished business of our time, and the greatest human rights challenge in our world.

The United Nations and women

UN support for the rights of women began with the Organization's founding Charter. Among the purposes of the UN declared in  Article 1 of its Charter  is “ To achieve international co-operation … in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion .”

Within the UN’s first year, the Economic and Social Council established its  Commission on the Status of Women , as the principal global policy-making body dedicated exclusively to gender equality and advancement of women. Among its earliest accomplishments was ensuring gender neutral language in the draft  Universal Declaration of Human Rights .

Women's rights as a human right

Gender Equality was made part of international human rights law by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. That milestone document in the history of human rights recognized that “ All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights ” and that “ everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, … birth or other status .”

As the international feminist movement began to gain momentum during the 1970s, the General Assembly declared 1975 as the International Women’s Year and organized the first World Conference on Women, held in Mexico City. At the urging of the Conference, it subsequently declared the years 1976-1985 as the  UN Decade for Women , and established a Voluntary Fund for Decade.

In 1979, the General Assembly adopted the  Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) , which is often described as an International Bill of Rights for Women. In its 30 articles, the Convention explicitly defines discrimination against women and sets up an agenda for national action to end such discrimination. The Convention targets culture and tradition as influential forces shaping gender roles and family relations, and it is the first human rights treaty to affirm the reproductive rights of women.

Five years after the Mexico City conference, a Second World Conference on Women was held in Copenhagen in 1980. The resulting Programme of Action called for stronger national measures to ensure women's ownership and control of property, as well as improvements in women's rights with respect to inheritance, child custody and loss of nationality

Birth of Global Feminism

In 1985, the World Conference to Review and Appraise the Achievements of the United Nations Decade for Women: Equality, Development and Peace, was held in Nairobi. It was convened at a time when the movement for gender equality had finally gained true global recognition, and 15,000 representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) participated in a parallel NGO Forum.

The event was described by many as “the birth of global feminism”. Realizing that the goals of the Mexico City Conference had not been adequately met, the 157 participating governments adopted the Nairobi Forward-looking Strategies to the Year 2000. The document broke new ground by declaring all issues to be women’s issues.

Beijing Conference on Women

The Fourth World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995, went a step further than the Nairobi Conference. The  Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action  asserted women’s rights as human rights and committed to specific actions to ensure respect for those rights. 

Commission on the Status of Women

The  Commission on the Status of Women  (CSW) is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The CSW is instrumental in promoting women’s rights, documenting the reality of women’s lives throughout the world, and shaping global standards on gender equality and the empowerment of women.

The Commission's priorities for the 2021-2024 period are:

  • Women’s full and effective participation and decision-making in public life, as well as the elimination of violence, for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.
  • Achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls in the context of climate change environmental and disaster risk reduction policies and programmes.
  • Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.
  • Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.

An Organization for Women

On 2 July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously voted to create a single UN body tasked with accelerating progress in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment. The new UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women – or  UN Women  – merged four of the world body’s agencies and offices: the UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), the Division for the Advancement of Women (DAW), the Office of the Special Adviser on Gender Issues, and the UN International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women.

UN Women focuses on four main areas: promoting women's leadership and political participation, empowering women economically, ending violence against women, and supporting women's full and equal participation in peace processes and security efforts.

Women and the Sustainable Development Goals

Equality and empowerment.

The United Nations is now focusing its global development work on the recently-developed 17  Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . Women have a  critical role to play  in all of the SDGs, with many targets specifically recognizing women’s equality and empowerment as both the objective, and as part of the solution.

Goal 5 , to "Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls" is known as the stand-alone gender goal, because it is dedicated to achieving these ends. Deep legal and legislative changes are needed to ensure women’s rights around the world. While a record 143 countries guaranteed equality between men and women in their Constitutions by 2014, another 52 had not taken this step. 

Stark  gender disparities  remain in economic and political realms. While there has been some progress over the decades, on average women in the labour market still earn 20 per cent less than men globally. As of 2024, only 26.8 per cent of all national parliamentarians were female, a slow rise from 11.3 per cent in 1995.

Eliminating Violence Against Women

The UN system continues to give particular attention to the issue of violence against women. The 1993 General Assembly  Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women  contained “a clear and comprehensive definition of violence against women [and] a clear statement of the rights to be applied to ensure the elimination of violence against women in all its forms”. It represented “a commitment by States in respect of their responsibilities, and a commitment by the international community at large to the elimination of violence against women”.

Violence against women is a pandemic affecting all countries, even those that have made laudable progress in other areas. Worldwide, 30 per cent of women have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence.

In September 2017, the European Union and the United Nations joined forces to launch the  Spotlight Initiative , a global, multi-year initiative that focuses on eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls.

The  International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women  is observed on 25 November.

International Women's Day and other observances

International Women’s Day  is observed annually on 8 March. International Women's Day first emerged from the activities of labour movements at the turn of the twentieth century in North America and across Europe. It is a day, observed by many countries around the world, on which women are recognized for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political.

Besides International Women’s Day and the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the UN observes other international days dedicated to raising awareness of different aspects of the struggle for gender equality and women empowerment. On February 6, the  International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation  is observed, February 11 is the  International Day of Women and Girls in Science , June 19 is the  International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict , June 23 is  International Widows' Day , October 11 is the  International Day of the Girl Child  and on October 15 the  International Day of Rural Women  is observed.

Gender-inclusive language

Gender Inclusive Language Guidelines

Given the key role that language plays in shaping cultural and social attitudes, using gender-inclusive language is a powerful way to promote gender equality and eradicate gender bias.

Being inclusive from a gender language perspective means speaking and writing in a way that does not discriminate against a particular sex, social gender or gender identity, and does not perpetuate gender stereotypes.

These  Guidelines  include recommendations and materials, created to help United Nations staff use gender-inclusive language in any type of communication — oral or written, formal or informal — and are a useful starting point for anyone.

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    Gender equality is a global priority at UNESCO. Globally, 122 million girls and 128 million boys are out of school. Women still account for almost two-thirds of all adults unable to read. UNESCO calls for attention to gender equality throughout the education system in relation to access, content, teaching and learning context and practices ...

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