Programming Principle Gender Equality Gender Equality in the

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

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

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.

Challenges • • 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

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