8 March
is the International Women's Day. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has different activites around this important day, also on Social Media. State Secretary Pascale Baeriswyl, on the right side, is wearing a button with the 5th objective of the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. She tweeted on her commitment and support towards gender equality! Furthermore, there is also a Blog on FDFA featuring a case on safe water and women!
Swiss Agency for Development and
Cooperation (SDC) is taking this day as an opportunity to recall the importance
of realizing gender equality to achieve sustainable development, an inclusive
economy, social cohesion and poverty reduction. In all its supports and within
its policy dialogue the SDC is engaged in promoting equal rights for women and
men as well as equal social and economic opportunities. This is SDC’s
contribution to the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development with its 5th
goal on gender equality.
Women and
men are often expected to have different roles and responsibilities in society. Poverty is still strongly linked to gender. According to international studies,
women are more affected by poverty than men particularly in the phase in which
they are primarily responsible for children and the family (122 women per 100
men aged 25-34). Legal frameworks and social norms make it more difficult for
many girls and women to have access to health services, education, land,
finances and leadership positions. In comparison to men, women's influence on
social, political and economic decision-making processes is limited. Gender
based violence is still prominent in many regions and discrimination is more
common for women than for men.
Sustainable development is not possible without gender equality. Gender equality is a long and challenging process. However, the inclusion of men and boys is essential for transformative change. For example, violence against men is still a social taboo. The SDC is therefore committed to ensure that men are not only regarded as perpetrators, but also as victims of violence.
Have a look at good practices that can make a difference for gender equality
Occupied Palestinian Territory
Enhancing social engagement and participation of all citizens especially youth and women through arts and culture. More information.
Kenya
Access to
menstrual and reproductive health for women and girls living in rural areas. An initiative of an Ashoka Fellow supported by SDC.
Mozambique
Increase the incomes of small holder farmers with a strong focus on women inclusion by linking them to market opportunities. More information.
Southern Africa An interactive app that replies to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health and rights related questions, and indicates where Youth Friendly Services are delivered. It is designed for Smartphones, you can access it via www.tuneme.org
You find also more information on this programme here.
An
initiative organised by the Southern Africa, East and North Africa, Occupied
Palestinian Territory Division (SENAP) in collaboration with the Focal Point
Gender Equality.
Explore
more information about the SENAP division here.
