UN Women report warns of global retreat in gender equality

A new report from UN Women reveals a significant global retreat in gender equality and the institutional capacity to protect women's rights. Since 2024, one in three institutions dedicated to defending women's rights has been weakened or had its functions cut. This includes reduced staffing, diminished influence in government decision-making, the disappearance of specialized units, and the transfer of responsibilities to other agencies.

Financial constraints are exacerbating this decline. Bilateral aid for programs including gender equality goals fell by 13% between 2023 and 2024, while funds specifically for women's rights organizations dropped by 28%. Within the United Nations, 42% of entities report a real or anticipated weakening of gender equality efforts due to funding crises.

The report also highlights a decline in female leadership across politics and business. While the number of female heads of state rose slightly from 20 to 28 between 2020 and early 2026, six out of seven countries are still led by men. Furthermore, the proportion of women in parliaments has fallen in 54 countries over the last five years, and the number of female ministers has decreased by 20% globally. At the current rate, the report warns that gender equality will not be achieved until the year 2197.