Gender equality refers to the equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities of women and men and girls and boys.

Equality does not mean that women and men will become the same but that women's and men's rights, responsibilities and opportunities will not depend on whether they are born male or female.

Gender equality implies that the interests, needs and priorities of both women and men are taken into consideration - recognizing the diversity of different groups of women and men.

Gender equality is not a 'women's issue' but should concern and fully engage men as well as women.

Equality between women and men is seen both as a human rights issue and as a precondition for, and indicator of, sustainable people-centered development.


(UN Office of the Special Advisor on Gender Issues and Advancement of Women: 10/05/00)