Annual Review: Gender Equality’s Influence on Security and Humanity

By Dr. Allan Britton

Introduction

Gender equality, a fundamental human right, has witnessed both progress and regression over the past year. While some regions have made significant strides toward achieving gender equality, others have experienced setbacks, notably Afghanistan. This article explores the changes in gender equality during the past year, with a particular focus on the challenges faced in Afghanistan and the broader implications for national security and humanity.

Global Changes in Gender Equality

In 2023, the global landscape of gender equality exhibited a complex and evolving picture. According to the United Nations (UN), progress towards gender equality is at risk of slipping away, with gender disparities worsening in various aspects of life. The UN Women's Report paints a stark picture, suggesting it could take another 286 years to close the global gender gaps in legal protections for women and girls. This sobering statistic underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of gender inequality in many parts of the world.

However, amidst these challenges, there have been notable efforts to advance gender equality. For instance, Ireland was poised to hold two referendums on gender equality and family matters, indicating a commitment to legislative changes that promote gender equality. Such initiatives demonstrate the potential for progress even in regions where gender disparities persist.

Gender Equality Issues in Afghanistan

The situation in Afghanistan stands in stark contrast to the global efforts toward gender equality. Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, they have implemented a series of rules and policies that have severely curtailed the fundamental rights of women and girls. These restrictions include limitations on freedom of movement, denial of the right to work and earn a livelihood, and significant barriers to accessing education and healthcare. The United Nations has expressed grave concerns, characterizing these restrictions as possibly amounting to "a crime against humanity."

The plight of women and girls in Afghanistan highlights the urgent need for global attention and action. It serves as a stark reminder that gender equality is not only a distant goal but a pressing and immediate concern, with the potential for severe human rights violations when progress is halted or reversed.

Impact on National Security

Gender equality is not solely a social issue; it carries profound implications for national security. The UK government's Women, Peace, and Security National Action Plan for 2023-2027 underscores the critical role of empowered and engaged women in creating more prosperous and secure societies. This perspective is supported by substantial evidence indicating that gender equality is a strong indicator of a state's peacefulness.

Research has consistently shown that higher levels of gender equality are correlated with lower levels of intrastate armed conflict and reduced severity of violence in interstate disputes when they occur. Empowering women and involving them in decision-making processes can contribute to conflict prevention, resolution, and post-conflict reconstruction. It fosters greater social cohesion and resilience, which are essential components of national security.

The interconnectedness of gender equality and national security highlights the need for comprehensive and integrated policies that recognize the multifaceted nature of security threats in the modern world.

Impact on Humanity

Gender equality is not merely a matter of policy or politics but is central to humanity's progress and well-being. The advancement of gender equality is associated with numerous benefits for society as a whole. These include:

Economic Development: Gender equality in the workforce can unlock the full potential of a nation's human capital, leading to increased productivity and economic growth.

Social Justice and Fairness: Gender equality promotes fairness and social justice by ensuring that all individuals have equal access to opportunities and resources.

Health and Well-being: Gender equality is linked to improved health outcomes, including lower maternal mortality rates and better access to healthcare for women and girls.

Sustainable Development: Achieving gender equality is a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations. Gender equality is integral to addressing poverty, hunger, education, and environmental sustainability.

However, despite these clear benefits, there is a global backlash against women's rights and gender equality, threatening to undermine the progress made in recent years. This backlash manifests in various forms, including regressive policies, cultural resistance, and violence against women and girls. Addressing this backlash is essential to ensuring that the gains achieved in gender equality are not eroded.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the past year has brought both progress and challenges in the pursuit of gender equality. While some regions have made commendable efforts to advance the cause of women's rights, others, such as Afghanistan, have seen significant setbacks. The situation in Afghanistan serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to promote gender equality, not only as a moral imperative but also as a critical component of national security and humanity's progress.

Gender equality is not an isolated issue; it is deeply interconnected with the broader fabric of society, affecting economic development, social justice, health, and sustainability. To truly advance the cause of gender equality, governments, civil society organizations, and individuals must work collaboratively to overcome the challenges and resistance that persist. Only through sustained commitment and concerted efforts can we hope to build a more equitable and secure world for all, where the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of gender, are fully respected and upheld.

References 1 MSN News. (2023). Two referendums on gender equality and family are expected to take place next year. 7 Human Rights Watch. (2023). World Report 2023: Afghanistan. 8 UN Press. (2023). Induce Taliban to End ‘Gender Apartheid’ in Afghanistan through all available means. 9 Human Rights Watch. (2023). 8 March 2023. What are the main challenges to women's and girls’ rights in Afghanistan? 12 GOV.UK. (2023). UK women, peace and security national action plan 2023 to 2027. 13 GOV.UK. (2023). UK women, peace and security national action plan 2023 to 2027. 15 CNN. (2023). Gender equality will take 300 years to achieve, UN chief warns. 16 Human Rights Watch. (2023). The Global Backlash Against Women’s Rights. 17 The Growth Faculty. (n.d.). IWD 2023 - What does Gender Equality mean to you?