Picture a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to thrive. This is the vision of gender equality—an essential human right and a cornerstone of just and prosperous societies. Yet, despite significant progress, the journey towards true gender equality remains fraught with challenges. As we strive for a more equitable future, it is imperative that we continue to address the systemic barriers and cultural norms that perpetuate gender inequality.
Globally, women and girls continue to face discrimination and violence in many forms. According to UN Women, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. The gender pay gap persists, with women earning on average 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. Additionally, women are underrepresented in leadership roles across sectors, from politics to business to academia.
However, the fight for gender equality is not just about women. It is about creating a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential. Men and boys also suffer from rigid gender norms that dictate how they should behave and limit their opportunities. Thus, gender equality benefits everyone, leading to healthier, happier, and more prosperous societies.
Gender equality intersects with various other human rights issues, including racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic equity. For example, women of color and LGBTQ+ individuals often face compounded discrimination. Addressing gender inequality requires an intersectional approach that considers how different forms of discrimination overlap and interact.
The importance of intersectionality in the fight for gender equality cannot be overstated. Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term “intersectionality,” emphasized that our identities are multifaceted and that oppression can manifest in multiple ways simultaneously. This means that the experiences of a Black woman will differ from those of a white woman or a Black man due to the overlapping effects of race and gender discrimination. Understanding and addressing these complexities is crucial for creating inclusive solutions that benefit all individuals, particularly those at the margins of society.
Despite the challenges, there are numerous examples of progress and promising practices from around the world. In Rwanda, women make up 61% of the parliament, the highest percentage in the world. This remarkable achievement is a result of deliberate policies that prioritize gender equality, such as mandated quotas and gender-sensitive legislation. Rwanda’s success story demonstrates that political will and effective policies can transform societies and promote gender parity in leadership positions.
Iceland consistently ranks as the most gender-equal country, with strong policies supporting gender equality in education, employment, and political representation. Iceland’s approach includes paid parental leave for both parents, legislation ensuring equal pay for equal work, and extensive support for women’s political participation. These measures have fostered a culture where gender equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality for many.
Achieving gender equality requires the active participation of men and boys. This means challenging harmful gender norms, supporting policies that promote equality, and standing in solidarity with women and gender-diverse people. Initiatives like the HeForShe campaign encourage men to become advocates for gender equality, recognizing that everyone benefits from a more equal society. When men actively participate in the movement for gender equality, they help to dismantle patriarchal structures and create more inclusive environments for all.
In the African context, gender equality is essential for the continent’s sustainable development. African countries have made significant strides in promoting gender equality through initiatives like the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions an Africa where gender equality is fully realized. Countries like Kenya and South Africa have implemented progressive gender policies, such as gender-responsive budgeting and anti-discrimination laws, to promote women’s rights and economic participation.
However, there is still much work to be done. Cultural practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and gender-based violence continue to undermine the rights of women and girls across the continent. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes legal reforms, community engagement, and education. Programs that empower women and girls, such as providing access to quality education and healthcare, are critical for breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting gender equality.
As we look to the future, it is crucial that we continue to push for gender equality at all levels—local, national, and global. This involves not only advocating for policies that promote equality but also changing the cultural narratives that perpetuate gender stereotypes. Media, education systems, and community leaders play pivotal roles in shaping societal attitudes towards gender. By promoting positive representations of women and girls, challenging harmful stereotypes, and fostering inclusive environments, we can create a culture that values and supports gender equality.
I call on policymakers, educators, business leaders, and everyday citizens to take bold action to advance gender equality. Support organizations that fight for women’s rights, challenge discriminatory practices in your workplace, and educate yourself and others about the importance of gender equality. Remember, the fight for gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a human rights issue that affects us all.
Moreover, it is essential to create spaces where the younger generation can lead. Intergenerational collaboration is key to driving sustained progress in gender equality. Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless energy to the table. By mentoring and supporting them, older generations can ensure that the torch of gender equality is passed on effectively. This collaborative approach allows for the blending of experience and innovation, creating a powerful force for change.
To achieve meaningful and lasting change, we must embrace partnerships for sustainable development, equal opportunities, decent work, and economic growth. These pillars are integral to building societies where gender equality thrives. Providing women with equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities not only benefits them but also contributes to the overall development and prosperity of communities and nations.
The journey towards gender equality is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of all individuals and institutions. By challenging gender norms, advocating for inclusive policies, and fostering intergenerational leadership, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Let us continue to strive for a future where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality for all.
About the author…
Lilian Njeri Mbuthi, hailing from Mukuru Kwa Njenga slums, Nairobi, Kenya, is a passionate changemaker dedicated to empowering adolescent girls and young women globally. She challenges societal norms, amplifies voices against gender-based violence and gender inequalities, and advocates tirelessly for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. Through her poetry and articles on platforms such as All Poetry (https://allpoetry.com/Lilian_Njeri_Mbuthi) and Medium (https://medium.com/@lilianmbuthi).
Lilian drives social change in her advocacy work.
