Programming Principle: Gender Equality

Gender Equality in the UN system Goal in its own right - UN Charter, heart of human rights, central to the mission of UN Key to development outcomes & achieving MDGs - Central to all development goals At operational level: TCPR 2007 (GA resolution) A national priority in most countries - National action plans for gender equality, ratification of CEDAW by 187 countries

Shared with HRBA, especially: –Equality and non-discrimination –Participation and inclusion –Accountability and rule of law Plus… Special temporary Measures Gender Equality Principles

Methodology Gender analysis –Examines differences in gender roles, activities, needs, and opportunities –Considers societal and state structures that sustain gender inequality, or promote equality Focus –How women and men experience problems differently –How they relate to one another and the societal forces that shape power relationships. Understanding of gender gaps and gender-based power should inform the UNDAF process.

Implementation Challenge Financing deficit Planning/Programming Challenge Accountability Deficit: UNDG Accountability study –Accountability in the UN System is weak overall –Good practices in strengthening accountability in UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, WFP & ILO –Recommendations on a set of harmonized performance indicators for UNCTs Coherence and coordination challenge Challenges

Changes needed Strong Leadership for Gender Equality and accountability at all levels Matching commitment with resources Coherent and coordinated approach, positioning of gender equality and authority Multi-sectoral strategies and broad-based partnerships –Twin strategy gender mainstreaming and gender specific actions Supporting women and women’s organizations and involving men and boys