ESCWA is training staff from the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development in Somalia, in addition to line ministers and representatives from other ministries on concepts, frameworks, standards and best practices related to mainstreaming and addressing gender equality and women’s empowerment, in order to enhance knowledge and ensure a more comprehensive approach within the Government.
The training began with a discussion of some of the basic terminology and concepts related to gender equality, as well as how to adopt a gender-sensitive and intersectional lens. This discussion provided the groundwork for better understanding the concept of gender equality, as well as the State’s obligation to address gender inequalities in legislation and policies.
The second session discussed the links between gender equality and human rights, and outlined the ways in which gender quality can be achieved. This led to a more detailed discussion of the primary international frameworks available to guide Member States on their quest to achieving gender equality.
The third session looked at the socio-legal status of women and girls in Somalia. The session began with some concepts related to the State’s obligation to address gender-based discrimination and work towards gender equality.
The final session provided a definition of a NWM, their history, and the different iterations (semi-governmental, ministry that addresses gender equality and other issues, or a full-fledged entity dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment) that these institutions can take regionally and globally.