International Women's Day
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Source:
8 March 2012 -- Today marks the 101st anniversary of International Women's Day, which was observed for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland in 1911. The Day recognises that securing peace, social progress and the full enjoyment of human rights requires the active participation, equality and development of women. It also acknowledges the contribution of women to the strengthening of international peace and security. For the women of the world, the Day's symbolism has a wider meaning. It is an opportunity to unite, network and mobilise for meaningful change. It is also an occasion to review how far they have come in their struggle for equality, peace and development. The Gender Equality Index (GEI) by Social Watch is one tool used to measure this progress. It shows the recent evolution and trends in bridging the gap between men and women in education, the economy and empowerment. The GEI for 2012 shows that the gender gap in education has narrowed yet, while have huge disparities between men and women remain in economic participation and participation in decision making. Sources: United Nations, WomenWatch, Social Watch |
