Reproductive rights are integral to women’s rights, a fact that is upheld by international agreements and reflected in law in different parts of the world.

To be able to exercise their human rights and make essential decisions, women need to be able to decide freely and responsibly on the number and spacing of their children and to have access to information, education, and services.

UN Women stands with the women of Iran in their rightful demands to protest injustice without reprisal, and to be free to exercise their bodily autonomy, including their choice of dress and also supports them in seeking accountability, and the upholding of their basic human rights as stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations.

"Over the past 11 months, we have seen an escalation of restrictive policies and behaviors towards women.

• Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where girls are banned from going to high school.
• Women are restricted from working outside the home, except for a few sectors and particular roles.
• There are no women in cabinet and there is no Ministry of Women’s Affairs, effectively removing women’s right to political participation.
• Women are required to have a male chaperone when they are travelling more than 78 kilometers.
• They’re also required to cover their faces in public.

Combined, these rules limit women’s ability to earn a living, access health care and education, escape situations of violence, and exercise their rights—and they further limit Afghanistan’s ability to chart a way forward through crisis."

How can we help?

"The answer may sound simple, but it’s transformative—proven to be true by research time and time again. Invest in women—invest in services for women, jobs for women and women-led businesses, invest in women leaders and women’s organizations."

- Ms. Alison Davidian, Country Representative a.i. for UN Women in Afghanistan

Torrential rains have ravaged more than 72% of Pakistan. More than 1,100 people have lost their lives. Schools, crops, livestock, and homes have been destroyed, leaving women and their families in urgent need of temporary shelter and financial assistance. 

In the wake of natural disasters, there is also an increased risk of violence against women. 

UN Women is responding to the specific needs of displaced women and girls, including women with disabilities. Together with our partners we are providing immediate relief including shelter, food, medical aid, and sanitary products. 

UN Women is ensuring access to essential services including legal aid, counselling, and other supports to protect and empower women in the face of violence. We are also providing mobile cash transfers to the most vulnerable women who need financial assistance now. 

In 2021, UN Women steered a course through the multiple crises posed by COVID-19, climate, and conflict to continue its work as a global thought leader on gender equality and women’s empowerment, convener of catalytic partnerships, and champion of women and girls. 

Thanks to its partners, UN Women received regular resources of USD 165 million in contributions. This report reflects some of their achievements as well as their approaches to accelerate change through their new Strategic Plan (2022–2025). It shows how regular resources have been the bedrock of their organization, enabling and sustaining UN Women's reach and impact.