Laws are only beginning to recognize the right of women to live safely with freedom from violence. Violence against women stands in the way of their equal participation in all parts of society. Statistics on women remain largely unchanged. Violence is increasing. Wages continue to be less than those of men.
Illiteracy is still very high.
Access to contraception is still limited in many parts of the world. The media and many cultures continue to view women in terms of unfair stereotypes and outdated expectations. Women themselves continue to play dual, if not triple or quadruple, roles as mothers, educators, providers and consumers. These roles need to be recognized and valued. Opportunities for women need to keep increasing in areas where they have previously been excluded.