Women Enjoy Only 64% of Men’s Legal Rights Globally — UN

The United Nations has raised concerns that women worldwide still possess only 64 per cent of the legal rights available to men, warning that gender inequality remains one of the most pressing human rights challenges globally.

This was highlighted by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, in an opinion article released on Tuesday to commemorate International Women’s Day and Women’s Month.

Guterres outlined eight key actions aimed at strengthening women’s rights, drawing from his experience and the work of UN agencies and civil society organisations around the world.

According to him, discriminatory laws and systemic barriers continue to prevent millions of women from accessing equal opportunities and justice.

“Worldwide, women hold only 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men. In too many places, they cannot own property, work freely, or seek a divorce,” he stated.

The UN chief added that even in countries where legal protections exist, women often face greater challenges in accessing courts and legal assistance.

He called on governments worldwide to eliminate discriminatory laws and ensure that women’s rights are effectively enforced.

Describing gender inequality as one of the most significant global issues, Guterres noted that advancing equality would help accelerate sustainable development and promote peace.

“Gender inequality is the greatest human rights challenge of our time, and advancing equality is one of the strongest drivers of sustainable development and peace,” he said.

He also pointed out that women remain significantly underrepresented in political and economic decision-making structures.

“Women are grossly under-represented in governments and boardrooms across the globe,” he added.

Guterres further stressed the importance of investing in women and girls, noting that increased spending on girls’ education, maternal health and family support systems yields substantial economic and social benefits.

He also called for stronger measures to combat gender-based violence, greater participation of women in peace negotiations, and the removal of bias in emerging technologies.

The UN chief emphasised that women must play a central role in climate action, noting that they are often among those most vulnerable to climate impacts.

“A liveable planet demands gender-responsive climate policies and equal participation of women in environmental decision-making,” he said.

Guterres urged governments, institutions and civil society to take practical steps to accelerate gender equality, stressing that closing the gender gap is essential for global progress.

“If leaders get serious about gender equality and commit to these solutions now, we will change the world for women and girls, and for us all,” he said.

He warned that male-dominated institutions continue to shape global power structures and that rising authoritarianism is worsening inequalities by rolling back protections related to fair labour practices, reproductive rights and other freedoms.

Guterres concluded by emphasising that gender equality benefits entire societies, noting that when power is shared, freedom and opportunities expand for everyone.