GENDER EQUALITY

 GENDER EQUALITY

Gender refers to the economic, social and cultural attributes and opportunities associated with being male or female UNFPA (2005). Indeed being a man or a woman is not simply a matter of different biological and physical characteristics. Men and women are expected

to behave, think and act differently. Relations between men and women be it in the domestic sphere or public sphere is largely dictated by societal constructs. Gender therefore differs from sex in that it involves social and cultural precepts in nature rather than just biology. However, it is important to highlight that these social expectations varies across cultures though with a normalcy in culture A different from culture B.

A concept gaining global recognition over the past decades, gender equality is when people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities. Truly, everyone is affected by these social plight-women, men, trans and gender diverse people, children and families. Gender equality impacts people of all ages and backgrounds. Gender equality has the tendency of preventing violence against young girls and women. It is very pivotal for economic prosperity as societies who value women and men as equal are safer and thus healthier.

Gender equality is a human right and benefits everyone. It is intrinsically intertwined with sustainable development and imperative to the realizations of happiness. As objective, this concept seeks to enforce situations of equal opportunities, rights and obligations of all, both men and women where everyone is inclusive with no one being left behind.

Sustainable Development Goal 5 tackles Gender Equality. Ending all discrimination against women and girls according to the United Nations is not only a basic human right but a crucial component for a sustainable future as its proven that empowering women and girls helps economic growth and development.

To attain gender equality, it is important to give women equal rights but not limited to land and property, sexual and reproductive health and technology.

WELISANE MAAGBOR.