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Introduction

Five years ago, Beijing hosted a watershed event in the history of women's rights. Over a 10-day period in September 1995, more than 40,000 participants from 189 countries participated in one of the largest global conferences ever held. "The Fourth World Conference on Women" sought to galvanise women's movements worldwide and forge partnerships with governments and international organizations in their struggle for global gender equality.

The result was a "Platform for Action" that includes seven main points, ranging from protection against violence to promoting economic autonomy. From June 5 to 9 the first follow-up meeting to review progress of that platform takes place. More than 150 countries and thousands of non-governmental organizations will converge at the United Nations General Assembly in New York and nearby venues for "Women 2000," also called "Beijing +5."

UNICEF is a host organization and core participant in the events. In addition to releasing an alarming report on June 1 about the extent of domestic violence against women and girls, the organization has prepared a publication for the meeting itself. Called "Equality, Development and Peace," it highlights some of the key issues that must be tackled in order to accelerate progress for women and girls.

UNICEF will stress four main themes at the conference:

1. gender equality starts early;
2. women's rights and girls' rights are interdependent;
3. children's rights cannot be achieved without girls' rights;
4. and community partnerships are needed to end violence and prevent HIV/AIDS.

Introduction to Beijing + 5 | Report: Domestic Violence | Publication: Equality, Development and Peace

Home | UNICEF in Action | Highlights | Information Resources | Donations, Greeting Cards & Gifts | Press Centre | Voices of Youth | About UNICEF