The 1995 Beijing Declaration committed to “equality, development and peace for all women everywhere in the interest of all humanity”. Fast-forward twenty-five years and much progress has been made when it comes to women’s rights.

Women’s representation in the world’s parliaments has doubled, and women leaders, though few in number, have been lauded for their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic. Declines in maternal mortality rates, female genital mutilation and the number of child brides are significant signs of progress.

But Covid-19 has laid bare many of the challenges; from the increase in domestic violence and femicide, to the disproportionate care burden women face or their reliance on more precarious work. The rise of populism is equally threatening to the global women’s equality agenda, bringing a renewed emphasis on unambiguous gender roles constrained by patriarchy. Addressing these challenges will require society-wide action alongside action to change the hearts and minds of individuals. 

Join us for a half-day virtual conference on 10 December, where we explore what should be prioritised in a forward-looking agenda for gender equality and harness the opportunities to build a ‘new normal.’

Documents

Agenda | Upholding momentum on the women's rights agenda

Briefing note | Upholding momentum on the women’s rights agenda