New Zealand Urges Gender Equality Action Amid Global Backlash

At the recent United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York, seven women's organizations from Aotearoa urged the New Zealand government to reaffirm its commitment to the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action in light of growing resistance to gender equality worldwide, particularly influenced by recent U.S. policies. A report indicated that women in New Zealand are less optimistic about their future quality of life compared to global averages, with only 24% feeling in control of their future. Activists highlighted that policies promoting equal rights are under attack, requiring a united and strategic response to defend and advance gender equality. This call to action is essential as barriers to gender equality persist, affecting access to reproductive health and legal protections. The organizations emphasized the need for bold, progressive policies to address these challenges effectively.