Different behaviour, aspirations and needs of women and men should be considered, valued and favoured equally. This does not mean that women and men have to become the same, but that their rights, responsibilities and opportunities will not depend on whether they are born male or female.

 

Gender inequality is a result of the persistent discrimination of one group of people based upon gender and it manifests itself differently according to race, culture, politics, country, and economic situation. It is furthermore considered a causal factor of violence against women.

 

Gender inequality could be seen in workplace and career development opportunities, education, social and community participation, laws and judicial systems, access to services and other aspects of life.

 

“Gender equality is more than a goal in itself. It is a precondition for meeting the challenge of reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development and building good governance.” Kofi Annan

 

For women and girls to fully participate in their communities and enjoy their rights, they need a life free from gender-based discrimination- a life with the opportunity to be educated, to work safe jobs with adequate and equal pay, to be healthy, and to participate in all aspects of public life. However, women are frequently subjected to gender norms that limit their opportunities, defining them as mothers, caregivers, or homemakers.

 

Not only do these assignations limit women’s choices, opportunities to seek education or a career, or ability to be decision-makers in their communities, they also put women at risk of poverty, ill-health, and violence. Women who don’t conform – such as those born intersexed, lesbians, or transgender people – are at heightened risk of violence and face often-dangerous levels of gender-based discrimination.

 

All women have the right to live without fear of violence, to access affordable, quality education and health care, to hold any job they wish, and to lift their families out of poverty.

 

Sexual Orientation and Transgender Status can be also included under sex discrimination. LGBTQ people are still subject to different or unequal treatment in Marriage and Family Laws, Employment, Education, Housing and lending. They are also subjected to Hate Crimes and Miscellaneous Policies.