Women are entitled to the full and equal enjoyment of all of their human rights and to be free from all forms of discrimination.

Around the world, women human rights defenders and women’s rights activists fight for the rights and freedoms of women and all individuals, every day. In the course of their work to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, these activists face violence, discrimination and intimidation. This International Women’s Day, UN Women stands in solidarity with the courageous women who are leading the fight, by amplifying their voices with innovative...

Today, 50 per cent of refugees uprooted from their homes from conflict, persecution or natural disasters are women and girls. This translates to more than 11 million refugee women and girls. During times of crisis, their specific needs and voices are often neglected. Here are just some of the objects that give women and girls agency and secure their health, dignity and rights.

The world has committed to upholding the rights of all women and girls. Fulfilling this commitment is particularly urgent in rural areas. Rural women and their organizations are on the move to claim their rights and improve their livelihoods and well-being.

Women are entitled to the full and equal enjoyment of all of their human rights and to be free from all forms of discrimination. Yet, discrimination against women persists in many areas, directly and indirectly, through laws and policies, social norms and practices and gender-based stereotypes. Gender equality before the law does not necessarily mean that women in practice have equal opportunities. This infographic takes a closer look at the various forms of discrimination women face.