UN Reports Women Hold Only 64% of Men's Legal Rights

In an op-ed issued on Tuesday to mark International Women's Day and Women's Month, UN Secretary-General António Guterres lamented that women worldwide hold only 64% of the legal rights available to men. He warned that gender inequality remains one of the greatest human rights challenges globally.

Guterres pointed out that discriminatory laws continue to hinder women's access to equal opportunities and justice. He noted that even in countries with legal protections for women, they often face significant obstacles in accessing courts and legal assistance.

Guterres called for a commitment to dismantling these discriminatory laws and emphasized the importance of investing in women's education, maternal health, and family support systems. He urged governments and civil society to take stronger actions against gender-based violence and to ensure women's central role in climate action.

Guterres concluded by stressing that gender equality is a fundamental human right that expands freedom and opportunities for all individuals.