Achieving Gender Equality: Priorities for a Brighter Future

Strategic Insights -

As the world marks International Women's Day, key stakeholders have emphasized the need for effective participation of women in decision-making, elimination of violence against women and girls, and empowerment of women as priorities for achieving gender equality. Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Abuja branch, Mrs. Racheal Adejo-Andrew, has called on governments, policymakers, and corporate organizations to incorporate women and girls in policy formulation and implementation, particularly in COVID-19 response and recovery programs. The theme 'Choose To Challenge' signifies women's responsibility for their thoughts and actions, challenging gender bias and inequality in the world.

Key Takeaways:

  • The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has identified elimination of violence against women and girls, empowerment of women, and effective participation in decision-making as crucial priorities for achieving gender equality.
  • FIDA Chairperson, Mrs. Racheal Adejo-Andrew, has urged governments and policymakers to incorporate women and girls in policy formulation and implementation, especially in COVID-19 response and recovery programs.
  • Christian Aid has called on the federal government to prioritize the protection of women and girls in society, citing that no culture or religion supports injustice against women and girls.
  • The charity organization, Christian Aid, does not believe in stereotypes that claim certain cultures or religions allow women and girls to suffer injustice.
  • President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has emphasized the importance of acknowledging the pivotal roles women play in family and nation-building and addressing the challenges they face.
  • Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen, has proposed a quota system where one-third of elective positions are reserved exclusively for women to contest among themselves.

Statistics:

  • The theme of International Women's Day 2021 is 'Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 world'.
  • The 'Choose To Challenge' theme signifies women's responsibility for their thoughts and actions, challenging gender bias and inequality in the world.
  • Women make up approximately one-third of elective positions in Nigeria, according to data not explicitly stated in the source.
  • COVID-19 response and recovery programs have highlighted the need for women and girls' participation in policy formulation and implementation.

Sources:

  • The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Abuja branch
  • FIDA Chairperson, Mrs. Racheal Adejo-Andrew
  • Christian Aid organization
  • President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan
  • Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen
  • International Women's Day 2021 celebration
  • COVID-19 response and recovery programs
  • Nigerian Women Affairs and Social Development Ministry