A new United Nations report has revealed a disturbing trend, showing that every ten minutes, a girl loses her life at the hands of either her partner or a family member.
The report, titled Women’s Rights in Review 30 Years after Beijing, highlights mounting threats to women and girls worldwide, citing growing discrimination, weakening legal protections, and dwindling support for gender equality initiatives.
According to the report, gender equality is regressing in many conflict and crisis-affected regions, with access to essential health services increasingly under attack. Additionally, incidents of conflict-related sexual violence are on the rise.
“The progress on gender equality in these areas has either stalled or moved forward at an alarmingly slow pace. Fundamental health rights are also under direct threat,” the report states.
The document further warns that artificial intelligence and digital technologies are exacerbating harmful stereotypes, while the digital gender gap continues to limit opportunities for women. Meanwhile, the number of women and girls living in conflict zones has surged by 50 percent over the past decade, placing them at even greater risk.
Women’s rights defenders also face heightened dangers, including harassment, personal attacks, and even targeted killings.
Recent global crises—including the Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and the rising cost of food and fuel—have worsened the situation, underscoring the urgency for action.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the importance of advancing gender equality, warning that women’s rights remain under attack.
“Rather than ensuring equal rights, we are witnessing the growing normalization of misogyny,” Guterres said. “We must stand together to make human rights, equality, and empowerment a reality for women and girls everywhere.”
UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting women’s rights.
“Despite the complex challenges hindering gender equality, we are unwavering in our resolve to push forward. Women and girls continue to demand change, and they deserve nothing less,” Bahous said.
Since 1995, when 189 governments adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, some strides have been made in advancing gender equality. The report highlights key achievements, including gender parity in girls’ education, a one-third reduction in maternal mortality, and a significant increase in women’s representation in parliaments. Additionally, 1,531 legal reforms have been enacted to eliminate discriminatory laws.
However, the UN warns that despite these advancements, women’s rights remain under serious threat.
In Kenya, gender-based violence continues to rise at an alarming rate, with 7,107 cases of sexual and gender-based violence reported since September 2023.
With gender equality facing unprecedented challenges, the UN is urging governments and stakeholders worldwide to take decisive action in protecting and advancing women’s rights.
