Gender equality is a fundamental human right and the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. Even so, gender remains one of the most pervasive forms of discrimination across all areas of life. While gender inequalities can affect anyone, impeding progress on global human development, it is women and girls who face the most prejudice.

On the ground in some 170 countries and territories, UNDP works to eliminate gender inequalities through a range of targeted, gender-focused programmes and strategies that accelerate structural transformation. Working in partnership with governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, academia and think tanks, UNDP seeks to ensure that gender equality remains central to development efforts and that the needs, experiences and contributions of women and girls are considered in decision-making.

UNDP’s gender equality awarding and certification programmes are focused on creating equitable and inclusive work environments, where women and men have equal potential to contribute, benefit and progress. Providing incentives for public institutions and private enterprises – and for UNDP itself – to meet gender equality standards in the workplace also accelerates progress towards meeting the 2030 Agenda.