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Women’s Rights in Sao Tome and Principe

Women’s Rights in Sao Tome and PrincipeSao Tome and Principe is an island nation on the coast of Central Africa, with a population of nearly 240,000 and a land area of 386 square miles. Although the island is small, one cannot understate the role of women in its success. They are the backbone of society, and while Sao Tomeans have made long strides in removing legal barriers to women’s rights in Sao Tome and Principe, restrictions remain that prevent women from accessing the full extent of their rights.

Sao Tomean Women in Poverty

More than two-thirds of the population of Sao Tome and Principe lives in poverty, but compared to 64.3% of male-led households in poverty, more than 71.3% of women-led households experience extreme and debilitating poverty.

Attempting to rectify systemic inequalities, the Sao Tomean government wrote the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe in November 1975, not only establishing the nation’s independence from Portugal but also codifying a host of cornerstone women’s rights, including property ownership, inheritance and the ability to pursue a job without a husband’s permission.

Since 1975, Sao Tomeans have introduced more than 14 national legal reforms to increase women’s economic autonomy and have ratified numerous international conventions, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

Most recently, in 2022, Sao Tomean President Carlos Vila Nova signed a new gender parity law designating 40% of all parliamentary seats to women. Although women in Sao Tome and Principe have not yet met the 40% representative quota, they now occupy 24% of parliament, a substantial increase compared to just around 12% in 1980.

In a legal context, the government has made undeniable progress toward women’s rights in Sao Tome and Principe, and it has implemented measures attempting to eliminate the poverty inequalities between men and women. However, many social barriers still prevent women from being truly free. 

Preventing Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is a principal indicator of women’s rights standards and a major barrier preventing women from escaping poverty. Sao Tomean leaders have implemented new measures to decrease the incidence of domestic abuse and increase the ability for women to report, but few of those reforms show in the growing rate of gender-based violence.

Police and prosecutors saw an increase of more than 20% in the number of domestic violence cases. Law enforcement is now considering ways to dismantle the influence of centuries-long traditions embedded in the inequities women face, including introducing new ways for women to report instances of violence.

Gender-based violence is cyclically linked to poverty, as both an impetus and a response. There is hope to end gender-based violence in Sao Tome and Principe with persistent legislators and police officers, given time and consistent resources.

Encouraging Women’s Education 

Sao Tomeans segment their education into pre-primary, primary, secondary and tertiary levels, and while education is legally mandated for children between 6 and 14 years old, many children, particularly young girls, face challenges in attending school. Often, people encourage them to stay home and learn the traditional role of women rather than skills to join the workforce.

Sao Tomean’s adherence to tradition may explain why only 23.1% of women participate in the workforce, compared to 24.1% of men, furthering the challenges for women escaping poverty. Education is the most critical factor in allowing young women to pursue professions later in their lives, and while girls typically finish secondary school, they rarely go on to higher education.

To advance women’s education, the Sao Tomean government removed the Disciplinary Act in 2020, which prevented pregnant girls from attending classes during the day after their first trimester. They are also expanding gender-responsive education and providing support materials to young women seeking education.

The government secures women’s rights in Sao Tome and Principe one girl at a time, reaching empowerment through structural reform and ending poverty disparities across the archipelago. 

– Divya Beeram

Divya is based in San Antonio, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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How the PpDM is Addressing Women’s Rights in Portugal

How the PpDM is Addressing Women's Rights in Portugal According to the European Institute for Gender Equality, Portugal ranked 15th in Europe for gender equality in 2023. The study found that health care had the most significant gender disparities, while workplace equality showed the most progress. A Randstad study, conducted by the global talent company, reported that Portugal’s gender pay gap stood at 13%, aligning closely with the 2024 European average. Despite ongoing challenges, activists and nonprofit organizations continue working toward gender equality, advocating for women’s rights, awareness, policy change and social reform.

PpDM Promoting Women’s Rights in Portugal

The Portuguese Platform for Women’s Rights (PpDM), an independent, nonprofit humanist organization, promotes gender equality through research, advocacy, mobilization and training. Free from government, political or religious affiliations, PpDM represents Portugal in key international networks, including the European Women’s Lobby (EWL), the EU Civil Society Platform against Trafficking, the Association of Women from Southern Europe (AFEM) and the Euro-Mediterranean Women’s Foundation (FFEM). As the national coordinator for the EWL, PpDM works closely with European organizations to advocate for gender equality policies and initiatives. The organization focuses on eliminating discrimination and gender-based violence by providing training and resources to nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). PpDM fosters open discussions on gender issues, creating a platform for organizations to collaborate, exchange knowledge and implement gender equality initiatives.

Key PpDM Initiatives for Gender Equality

  • Mobilize Against Sexism!. Funded by the Council of Europe and organized by the EWL, raises awareness about sexism and discrimination. The initiative promotes public dialogue on gender-based biases and provides legal definitions of sexism to support advocacy efforts. To extend its reach, the campaign offers flyers, posters and educational materials for use in schools and public awareness programs.
  • Women in Climate. An initiative launched by the EWL integrates gender perspectives into climate policy. The project highlights how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized women and encourages civil society organizations to advocate for gender equality in environmental action. By bridging women’s rights and climate justice, the initiative strengthens policy discussions and advocacy strategies.
  • From the Voice III. It provides a digital platform for conversations about sexism, discrimination and gender-based violence. The initiative creates a safe online space where women can share experiences, participate in discussions and access educational resources. Webinars, podcasts and other digital content aim to challenge gender stereotypes and promote feminist discourse in Portugal.

Beyond these initiatives, PpDM has launched several other projects that amplify women’s voices, mobilize communities and influence policy change. Programs such as the Feminist Tribune, bE_SAFE, and Young Europe Sustainable Democracy Builders (YES) focus on human rights advocacy, gender-based cyber safety and youth involvement in democratic policy-making.

Advocacy and International Collaboration

PpDM actively engages in international human rights conventions that promote gender equality and women’s rights. The organization contributes to global policy discussions, influencing frameworks such as the Istanbul Convention and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. By working with international organizations and policymakers, PpDM strengthens its influence on gender policies at both national and global levels.

Looking Ahead

The PpDM calls for broader community participation in its mission to achieve gender equality. Indeed, by fostering education, advocacy and legal reforms, the organization remains a driving force in promoting women’s rights in Portugal. As challenges persist, continued collaboration with policymakers, activists and civil society could be essential in creating lasting change for future generations.

– Hannah Pacheco

Hannah is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Education in Afghanistan: Barriers and Economic Impact

Education Access in Afghanistan: Barriers and Economic ImpactAfghanistan continues to struggle with the challenges of rebuilding after decades of conflict and political instability. From the Soviet invasion of the 1980s to civil war, famine and 20 years of United States (U.S.) occupation, the Taliban now governs a nation in crisis following the withdrawal of American forces and the overthrow of the Afghan government in 2021.

Poverty is widespread and natural disasters have compounded economic hardships. Afghanistan’s GDP declined by 24.3% between 2021 and 2022, leaving millions in financial distress. An estimated 96% of Afghan households fell below the poverty line in 2020 and farmers faced one of the worst droughts in recent history. In October 2023, several 6.3-magnitude earthquakes struck Herat province, further devastating livelihoods and worsening economic conditions.

Women’s Education Under Taliban Rule

Since regaining power, the Taliban has imposed strict regulations on women’s education, barring them from attending school past the sixth grade. These restrictions have affected an estimated 1.4 million girls, cutting off their access to formal learning. Women also face limitations on movement and employment, restricting opportunities for financial independence.

The Economic Impact of Education Restrictions

The exclusion of women from education has long-term economic consequences. Before 2021, women made up 22% of Afghanistan’s workforce, working in sectors such as health care, education and business. Restricting women from pursuing education reduces economic productivity and slows national recovery. Foreign aid previously accounted for 40% of the country’s GDP and with limited external support and half of the workforce excluded, the country’s economic outlook continues to decline.

Foreign Aid and Education Funding in Afghanistan

During the war, Afghanistan’s education system was a global priority. Between 2001 and 2024, the U.S. invested $1.4 billion in Afghan education, helping to establish schools and train teachers. However, since 2021, foreign aid has significantly declined, leaving many schools underfunded and understaffed. The country’s literacy rate remains one of the lowest in the world, at 34% overall and only 18% among women.

Efforts to Sustain Education Access in Afghanistan

Despite these ongoing challenges, organizations such as the Afghan Institute of Learning (AIL) continue to provide education for women and children in Afghanistan. AIL operates 44 learning centers across 11 provinces and has helped 500,830 students while training nearly 30,000 teachers over the past 25 years. These programs aim to equip students with literacy skills and critical thinking tools, offering hope for the country’s next generation. Community-based education initiatives have also emerged, allowing some girls to study in private homes or local centers. However, these informal programs do not offer official certification, which limits long-term opportunities for employment and higher education.

Looking Ahead

In Afghanistan, education could promote long-term stability and recovery. Ensuring access to learning opportunities for all Afghans—especially women—remains critical. Until broader reforms are implemented, organizations like AIL continue to bridge the gap by providing educational opportunities to those who need them most. The country’s future potentially depends on creating an inclusive education system that empowers all citizens to contribute to the country’s recovery and economic growth.

– Burke Bunyard

Burke is based in Austin, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Senior Taliban Official Backs Afghan Women’s Right to Education

Afghan Women’s Right to EducationThe political deputy of the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry has condemned the education bans imposed on Afghan women and girls. Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, Afghan women’s and girls’ right to education, among other human rights, has been under attack. In a speech delivered on Jan. 18, 2025, the senior official Sher Abbas Stanikzai referred to the education ban as “an injustice against” half of Afghanistan’s population and pressed for the de facto government to “open the doors of education.” This is the second time Stanikzai has publicly advocated for gender equality in education.

What Is Life Like for Women and Girls in Afghanistan?

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) released a statement on the International Day of Education, Jan. 24, 2025, noting that it has been four years since Afghanistan became “the only country in the world that explicitly bars women and girls [above the age of 12] from all levels of education.” It is not only Afghan women’s and girls’ right to education that is being violated. A series of other gender discrimination laws have been passed targeting women’s rights. The laws include the right to work, appear on TV, recite poetry or sing in public, go to the park and travel without a male relative.

The situation worsened when the Ministry of Economy shared a letter on the social media platform X on Dec. 29, 2024, threatening to shut down the activities of all nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) with women employees. Data collected by UNAMA revealed that 64% of Afghan women surveyed felt unsafe going out alone. This anxiety largely stems from “targeted harassment, threats and violence” from the Taliban and the wider community.

Men have also expressed feeling safer going out alone than with a female relative in public. Accompanying a woman draws more attention from the authorities. UNAMA notes that this has led to increased conservatism and control within families as men risk being targeted for violating the limitations placed on women and girls. Many Afghan women and girls protested the Taliban’s rise to power in 2021.

However, the Taliban responded with violence, killings and arbitrary arrests. UNAMA’s report further highlights the barriers Afghan women face when communicating with local authorities. This disconnect further removes women’s voices from public life. It increases their reliance on men in their family and community to advocate for them.

Who Are the Taliban and Stanikzai?

The Taliban is a Sunni Islamist group founded in 1994 which previously ruled Afghanistan between 1996 and 2001, implementing similar gender discrimination laws as are enforced by its regime today. Many of its members are former Afghan Mujahideen – armed Islamist groups involved in the First Afghan Civil War (1989-1992).

The first Taliban government fell after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, but the group regained control in 2021 after U.S troops withdrew. With the rights of women and girls deteriorating rapidly, in 2022, the deputy foreign minister condemned the closure of schools for girls. During a gathering of Taliban officials in Kabul, the country’s capital, Stanikzai urged the regime that “Women must get an education; there is no Islamic prohibition for girls’ education.”

This time around, Stanikzai directly asked the Taliban leader to reconsider the regime’s policies. He argued that there was no reason to deny education to women and girls, “just as there was no justification for it in the past and there shouldn’t be one at all.” The Guardian reported that Stanikzai is allegedly facing arrest for his comments and has fled to Dubai, though the minister has said he left for “health reasons.”

The Past

Restrictions on women’s rights have not always been the norm. The country has experienced fluctuating periods of equality and gender disparities in the past century.

For example, women’s suffrage in Afghanistan was achieved in 1919, a year before women in the U.S. were granted the right to vote. During this same period, the Queen Consort of Afghanistan, Soraya Tarzi, advocated for Afghan women’s and girls’ right to education and facilitated the opening of the country’s first school for girls in 1921. Since then, various regimes have advanced or rolled back on women’s rights.

How Has the International Community Been Responding?

Despite having been the de facto authorities for four years, the Taliban has yet to receive international recognition. The growing exclusion of women and girls from the public space has led to the U.N. labeling the Taliban’s policies as “gender apartheid.” Similarly, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued applications for arrest warrants against two Taliban officials: the leader of the Taliban, Haibatullah Akhundzada and the Chief of Justice, Abdul Hakim Haqqani. They are charged “for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds.” The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, also announced that other senior Taliban officials will soon face similar consequences.

With the clampdown on NGOs in the country, courses for action on the ground are becoming increasingly limited. UNAMA has been collaborating with the United Nations Entity for Women and Gender Equality (U.N. Women) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) since August 2022 to reach out to Afghan women nationwide and gather insights about their living conditions. Their latest report revealed that 45% of women and 41% of men consulted in April 2024 believe the international community should facilitate communication between Afghan women and the Taliban. They believe centering women’s voices is crucial to advancing their rights.

– Nesreen Yousfi

Nesreen is based in Watford, Hertfordshire, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Reality of Women’s Rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Women's Rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, an island country located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, consists of the island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadine Islands. Throughout the past several decades, women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has made progress. With still more work being necessary, Saint Vincent and the Grenadine Islands have made an immense amount of strides to combat women’s rights issues. ​

Improving Women’s Rights

When it comes to gender equality, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines performs well on the gender scorecard. The country has made several improvements to combat gender inequality, which spans over the past two decades. Looking at women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, economic opportunities, human endowments and voice and agency are among the improvements that this country has made to build on the issue. The economy ranks at 59.8, which means this country has a moderately free economy.

Poverty in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Poverty in islands such as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is prevalent. Based on UNICEF data, in 2016, 30% of individuals living in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines suffered from poverty. The poverty rate in the country is higher than that of other surrounding countries. About 41% of people were more likely to suffer from poverty in female headed households as compared to 31% of male headed households. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and made poverty rates go up, specifically with children. Child poverty rates in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are projected to increase from 4% to 18% post pandemic.

The Maternal Health Access For Women 

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, women have prominent access to maternal health care services, leading to 98.6% of births being attended by a health care professional in 2016. This country has tried to reduce the adolescent birth rate and has made progress doing so. The adolescent birth rate is 1.8 per 1,000 women from ages 15-19 as of 2021. Comparing these numbers to 2020, it was 53.58 per 1,000. Through the changes made, it impacts the life expectancy of the population there. The life expectancy at birth in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has improved from 71.7 years in 2000 to 72.6 years as of 2021. This is a 0.895 increase when comparing the data of life expectancy at birth.

Political Progress

As of February 2024, women occupied only 18.2% of parliament seats. Meanwhile, in 2010, women held only 14.3%. These numbers are low in comparison to its surrounding country, Trinidad and Tobago. As of 2023, 28.6% of women hold the parliament seats in Trinidad and Tobago. Although the numbers vary, the number of women in parliament seats in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will continue to climb.

Violence Against Women

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, gender-based violence has improved through anti-violence campaigns and government initiatives. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a campaign that runs from November 25 to December 10. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines participate in this campaign and information is brought to schools to make people aware of why this campaign is important.

A strategy called The Montevideo Strategy is implementing public policies, known as the Regional Gender Agenda, by 2030 to ensure gender equality in the Caribbean. A government initiative called The Gender Affairs Division of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (GAD), first created in 2001, works to tackle gender-based violence. The GAD consists of a woman coordinator and promotes counseling and contact with other agencies as a way of support and prevention of violence against women. Through GAD, the government built a crisis center for victims of domestic violence in 2012. The center runs a 24/7 hotline as well as houses 10 people for 3 months.

Going Forward

Although women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have made significant progress over the past decades, progress is still continuing to be made. Through economic opportunities, women’s role in government and health care, this country will continue to showcase their value in women’s rights. The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is working to implement legislature to help protect women’s rights in the country. According to 2023 Human Rights Report data, the government put in place anti-violence campaigns in schools and communities as a way to end gender-based violence based on their 16 days of activism campaign. It will not be easy to gain full equality but by these small efforts change is already closer than it appears. 

– Kayla Barnak

Kayla is based in Brownstown, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Things to Know About Haiti’s Gender Wage Gap

haiti's gender wage gapRanked 163rd out of 170 countries on the UNDP’s Gender Inequality Index in 2021, Haiti’s gender wage gap is categorized as the largest of any Latin American or African state. Many factors interact to maintain this level of income inequality, with traditional ideas around a woman’s role, gender-based violence and a disproportionate number of female workers in the informal sector reinforcing this harmful cycle. There are several attempts to eradicate these gender inequalities in the labor market, but more work is still necessary.

Haiti’s Gender Wage Gap and Unemployment

On average, female salaries are around 32% lower than their male counterparts in Haiti. About a third of this wage difference “can be explained by factors such as age, number of children, education, and industry of employment,” according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the rest of Haiti’s gender wage gap has no explanation, pointing towards a culture of gender discrimination. In rural areas, this manifests itself as more women living in poverty; households headed by women are more likely to live below the poverty line (62% compared to 54% of male-led households).

In 2017, women in Haiti were 20 percentage points more likely to be out of work than their male equivalents This was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with women more likely to be unemployed or leave their positions, “reflecting a pattern of low labor market attachment among women that was already present and that expanded during the pandemic.” Although female unemployment has reduced slightly in the post-lockdown era, it still stood at 17.78% in 2023, compared to 11.79% for men.

Women and the Informal Sector

The informal sector contributes around 60% of Haiti’s GDP. Haitian women tend to dominate in this informal economy, partially due to a lack of opportunities or education, but also because Haitian women have “traditionally carried the brunt of family responsibilities” and the society sees them as “poto-mitan” – or backbone- of their families and wider communities. Thus, many women become informal merchants to earn money and juggle domestic responsibilities, contributing to Haiti’s gender wage gap. Women tend to work more in this informal sector which “small production units with low-profit margins” define, including a lack of protections and security for workers (10), which further disadvantages women in terms of pensions and rights, making job progression more difficult.

Traditional Gender Roles and Violence

Around half of Haitian homes, according to the May-June 2020 Haiti Gender Assessment, claimed that chores like cooking, cleaning and child-rearing were a woman’s responsibility in the home. This significant domestic burden inevitably places women at a disadvantage when looking for employment in comparison to men, who tend to have fewer if any domestic tasks.

Also, women have much less access to “productive resources” like land and financial tools, with only 8% of women in rural Haiti owning their own land, compared to 20% of rural men, according to the World Bank. Although only a third of Haitians have a bank account, the gender gap is around 5 percentage points, with much less women having access to these services.

An acute problem with gender-based violence could also be contributing to the persistence of Haiti’s gender wage gaps, given that violence against women “has profound implications for women’s [labor] market participation, driving economic and workplace barriers that erode financial independence and restrict access to meaningful employment opportunities.” In just the first quarter of 2024, there were 1,793 reports of GBV 94% of which came from women and girls, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Combatting chauvinist ideas and domestic violence towards women is key to empowering and integrating them into the workplace.

Education Gap Reversing

Despite a lack of progress regarding women’s involvement in the workforce, there has been progress in improving female education and attendance rates. Gender gaps have “closed or even reversed at the secondary and tertiary levels” with more girls between 15-24 years attending school than boys in rural areas, the World Bank reports.

However, gender gaps persist in lower stages of the education system, and men are still more likely to have graduated from secondary and higher education institutions than their female counterparts. This persisting gender gap in higher education attainment is inevitably worsening this gender pay gap, given that many women in Haiti have not been provided with the same level and quality of education as their male peers.

Solving Haiti’s Gender Wage Gap

The Haitian government has tried to make progress regarding the country’s marked gender wage gap, signing international accords addressing women and gender equality. It also has a Ministry for the Status of Women and Women’s Rights (MCFDF) and a Gender Equality Office for the Parliament, established in 2013, “to foster gender equality on the legislative level and women’s participation in formal politics.”

However, implementation has been slow, considering institutional weakness, political instability and a lack of funding for the MCFDF. Quotas for female representation in government have not had major success within these bodies, with women making up less than the constitutional requirement in both houses of the Haitian Parliament (less than 30%). Compared to its neighbors, Haiti is underperforming regarding the promotion of gender quality and equal opportunities, according to the World Bank.

USAID has also attempted to empower women and girls and combat Haiti’s gender wage gap. They have focused on programs intermingling economic factors and improvements to health and sanitation provision with measures to reduce poverty and gender-based violence. USAID initiatives to reduce poverty and stimulate growth have created 27,000 permanent jobs since 2011, 53% of which employed women, in sectors like construction and manufacturing.

Final Notes

Haiti is a country with a young population and much potential but has suffered at the hands of dictators, natural disasters, and political instability. The country’s gender pay gap has been fed by and worsened female participation in the labor market and the lack of employment opportunities for women. Despite great efforts by the Haitian government and USAID, the 32% gender wage gap persists, and women still find themselves without work, or limited to employment within more informal sectors without workplace protections.

– Ciara Howard

Ciara is based in Brighton, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know About Women’s Rights in Kiribati

Women’s Rights in KiribatiKiribati is an island country formed in 1979 that is located in Oceana. Despite having a smaller population compared to its neighbors, Kiribati has been steadily growing in its economic power ever since its inception. One can attribute this partly to women’s rights in Kiribati, which have been prominent ever since the country’s inception.

Within the Law

Women have always had the right to vote in Kiribati, as that was codified when the country was first granted independence. Despite this strong foundation for women’s rights, women only make up 6.67% of representation in national parliament in Kiribati, compared to a global average of 25.09%. 

The Kiribati constitution does not protect individuals from discrimination based on gender. However, certain protections for women have recently been passed. Violence against women, namely sexual assault, is treated as a crime and prosecuted accordingly. The punishment for this includes a maximum life sentence of life in prison for rape specifically, though the mean amount of jail time rests around four years.

In 2018, the Kiribati Women and Children’s Support Center was opened and launched a 24-hour hotline for survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse. This marked a turning point for women’s rights in Kiribati, and contributed to broader efforts of spreading awareness about sexual assault in the region.

Inside the Schools

Literacy rates for women are above average at 98.61% ( the world average is 82.03%). One can attribute this to the universal education for youth Kiribati provides. Girls are actually more likely to complete their primary education than boys, and this emphasis of literacy and education allows for women in Kiribati to attain economic empowerment. Furthermore, the Education Act of 2013 solidified education for all by codifying protections against women and girls by outlawing refusal of enrollment based on sex.

Unfortunately, girls’ attendance in school drops exponentially after primary education. Only 87% of girls go on to complete junior secondary education, and then just 63% complete senior secondary education. This is for a variety of factors, but poverty is the main reason. Often, parents will pull their children out of school following primary or junior secondary school in order for them to help earn enough money to put food on the table. The wealthiest children in Kiribati have a 71% chance of completing their education, while the poorest have only a 35% chance. 

Women and Poverty

While women in Kiribati tend to have more education than men on average, this does not necessarily mean that their quality of life or financial standing is any better. In fact, the unemployment rate for women in Kiribati was up to 12.4% in 2020, almost 2% more than men. The labor force participation rates contain similar disparities, with men having a 54.4% labor force participation rate, and women only reaching 40.5%. There are a variety of factors behind this, but gender gaps and a lack of supportive policies to help combat unfair hiring practices are often cited as main reasons. Due to this, women in Kiribati are at a higher likelihood of living in poverty. 

Despite this, there are concerted efforts from various organizations within Kiribati to help women and girls fight poverty. One of the most prominent organizations in the area is called Teitoiningaina, which is the National Catholic Women’s Association of Kiribati. This organization focuses on improving the lives of women in Kiribati by offering family health care, offering programs to help women in Kiribati get an education and providing classes on business. 

Looking Ahead 

Although the rate of violence against women in Kiribati is proportionally high, new government programs help provide support to survivors and further criminalize violence against women. Not only that, but the rate of literacy for women exceeds the standard for the region by far and gives women the opportunity to have more economic power and autonomy than they otherwise might not have. While there is still work to be done for women’s rights in Kiribati, the region is on the path to success.

– Mackenzie Scott

Mackenzie is based in Indianapolis, IN, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Financial inclusion for women in South Asia

Financial inclusion for women in South AsiaFinancial inclusion for women in South Asia is emerging as a powerful tool to foster empowerment in a region where gender disparities persist, particularly in education, employment and economic independence. As financial literacy programs and access to banking services become more accessible, women are not only gaining greater control over their finances but also starting businesses that contribute to the growth of local economies and communities. In countries like India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, financial inclusion initiatives are reshaping the lives of women, helping them break free from traditional barriers and boosting their confidence as entrepreneurs.

The Importance of Financial Literacy for Women

Financial literacy is an essential skill that enables individuals to make informed decisions about budgeting, saving and investing. However, in many South Asian countries, women have traditionally had limited access to financial services and education. Societal norms often discourage women from engaging in economic activities outside the home. In some cases, women have little control over household finances, making it difficult to save, invest or manage money effectively.

Programs aimed at financial inclusion for women in South Asia are helping to close this gap. In particular, initiatives that educate women on personal finance and entrepreneurship are proving to be transformative. These programs equip women with the necessary knowledge to manage their money and budget and understand financial products like loans, insurance and investments. By providing this essential education, women in South Asia are empowered to take charge of their financial futures and pursue entrepreneurial endeavors.

Case Studies From South Asia

Several countries in South Asia have made significant strides in promoting financial inclusion for women. India, for example, has seen remarkable progress through government-backed initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), which aims to provide access to banking for all citizens, including the unbanked, particularly women. Since its launch in 2014, millions of women have opened bank accounts and gained access to financial services. This initiative has helped women build savings, secure loans and improve their financial literacy, enabling them to take control of their lives and make financial decisions without relying solely on male family members.

In Bangladesh, organizations like the Grameen Bank have pioneered the concept of microfinance and microloans, specifically targeting women in rural areas. These small loans have empowered women to start small businesses, such as selling goods or providing services, thus promoting economic independence. The success of microfinance has not only helped women become entrepreneurs but also created a ripple effect in their communities. Women who benefit from microloans are often able to support their families better, improve access to education for their children and contribute to the overall economic development of their villages.

Pakistan, too, has seen an increase in financial inclusion initiatives aimed at women. The State Bank of Pakistan introduced the “First Women Bank Limited” (FWBL), which provides services tailored to women’s financial needs. The bank offers microcredit loans, savings accounts and other financial services to women in rural and urban areas alike. The bank’s mission is to empower women by providing them with the financial resources needed to build businesses and support their families. Along with microfinance, Pakistan has also seen an expansion of mobile banking services, which have helped bridge the financial inclusion gap for women in remote areas.

Impact on Women’s Lives, Families and Communities

The impact of financial inclusion for women in South Asia extends beyond the individual. When women are financially empowered, their families and communities benefit as well. Studies have shown that when women control financial resources, they are more likely to invest in their children’s education, health and well-being. This creates a positive feedback loop where empowered women uplift entire communities.

Furthermore, financial inclusion programs for South Asian women play a crucial role in reducing poverty. By helping women access loans, savings accounts and financial education, these programs provide the tools necessary to lift families out of poverty and increase overall economic stability. With greater access to financial resources, women can start businesses, create jobs and contribute to the broader economy.

Investing in Women’s Financial Education

The evidence is clear: investing in financial inclusion for women in South Asia is crucial for sustainable development and poverty reduction. By providing women with the knowledge and tools to manage money, start businesses and access financial services, financial inclusion programs are breaking down the barriers that have traditionally kept women from reaching their full potential. As more women in South Asia gain access to financial resources, they are not only improving their own lives but also contributing to the economic growth and development of their countries.

Empowering women through financial inclusion is a key step toward creating a more equitable and prosperous future for South Asia. With continued investment in women’s financial education, the region is on the path to creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

– Alaya Laila

Alaya is based in Abuja, Nigeria and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Radio Begum: A Lifeline for Afghan girls 

Radio BegumSilence is the most powerful instrument of oppression. After regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have silenced Afghan women and girls in almost every aspect of life: enforcing a systematic attack on women’s rights. This has made Afghanistan virtually unlivable for women and girls, with the situation representing the world’s most severe women’s rights crisis. Within this critical context, Afghan journalist Hamida Aman founded Radio Begum, which provides a lifeline of hope for Afghan women and girls.

The “Gender Apartheid” in Afghanistan

The Taliban are “methodically and intentionally‘” enforcing a system of gender-based segregation – which Afghan activists, like Dr Sima Samar, describe as a “gender apartheid.”

Dr Samar, who witnessed the collapse of the Taliban’s previous regime in 2001, never imagined seeing such extreme violations of women’s rights reoccur just two decades later. Yet, over the last three years, the Taliban have enacted numerous laws banning girls from going to secondary school, accessing employment, the justice system and even public spaces. Most recently, the oppression of women has reached a new extreme, with a ban prohibiting “women’s voices from being heard in public.”

A female teacher in Afghanistan said:  “In my province, we had girls that could be singers, professors, athletes and politicians. Now we have nothing left. All of those talents are in jail, left the country or now live in hiding. Families rush to marry their daughters because they are afraid the Taliban may take them for marriage. Most girls are forced to marry. This is a nightmare I never imagined to happen.”

The Power of Radio to Educate

Radio is a powerful tool in resisting the Taliban’s oppression of women and girls. It provides one of the main sources of information for Afghans, with 72% of the population having access to a radio, as of 2015. This widespread accessibility allows the radio to serve as an important educational platform for Afghan girls.

Recognizing this, Radio Begum emerged in 2021 to support, empower and educate Afghan women and girls. Its daily radio broadcasts currently provide remote schooling and educational support to 5.9 million Afghan girls.

However, Radio Begum is just one part of the wider mission led by its founder, Hamida Aman. Her NGO, The Begum Organization for Women (BOW), brings together a network of social activists, health professionals and journalists who produce broadcasts from Paris to more than 19 provinces in Afghanistan. With support from UNESCO, BOW even extends its support beyond education, producing content dedicated to women’s mental health, gender-specific healthcare and domestic violence, according to UNESCO.

Additionally, with funding from the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC),  BOW has further expanded its reach by integrating radio, satellite TV and internet broadcasting to ensure more girls across Afghanistan can access education for free. Whilst Radio Begum cannot put a stop to the oppression of women and girls, Hamida Aman emphasizes that “by keeping our radio on, by keeping our voices loud, we are resisting,” UNESCO reports.

The Need for International Support

Radio Begum offers a critical lifeline for Afghan women and girls. Despite significant obstacles, BOW’s work exemplifies Afghan women’s resilience and resistance to the Taliban, as they continue to develop innovative ways to support and empower Afghan girls. However, BOW must secure further international funding to ensure Radio Begum continues to provide Afghan women and girls with access to education, employment and leadership opportunities.

Yet, despite the severity of the situation, the international community has failed to take sufficient action. Indeed, Amnesty International and activists, like Sima Samar, continue to call for the establishment of an independent international accountability mechanism to hold the Taliban accountable for their crimes under international law.

– Georgia Wells

Georgia is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Seychelles: Progress and Pathways Forward

Women's Rights in SeychellesSeychelles ranks highly on global gender equality scales, but efforts to protect and advance women’s rights remain vital. This island nation continues to tackle legal, social and economic challenges to create an inclusive society for women with a focus on positive outcomes and progressive changes.

Legal Frameworks and Policy Solutions

Seychelles is a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on Gender and Development. These agreements shape national policies guiding efforts to reduce discrimination in education, health care and access to legal rights.

The policy provides a roadmap for engaging both men and women in the national workforce. For example, Seychelles has recently started capacity-building workshops to encourage more women to enter traditionally male-dominated fields like agriculture, where women account for only 6% of the workforce.

In early 2023, a capacity-building workshop held in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Family Affairs identified key areas of support, such as access to time-saving technologies, farming inputs and agricultural land. These efforts have already led to increased participation of women in agriculture, addressing the previous gender gap. The government aims to reach hundreds of women through these initiatives by 2025.

Tackling Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a concern in Seychelles despite legal protections. Surveys reveal that 41% of Seychellois believe a woman reporting GBV might face criticism or harassment. Though 91% of Seychellois disapprove of physical discipline against women, societal attitudes make it difficult for many victims to come forward. However, solutions are emerging. Police reform initiatives have been implemented, focusing on training officers to respond better to GBV cases. Support groups and shelters have also been established to help victims feel safer when reporting abuse.

Economic Empowerment

While Seychelles has made strides in education—women now outnumber men in tertiary enrollment—economic empowerment remains a challenge. Women are still underrepresented in high-income sectors, particularly in agriculture, business leadership and technology. To address this, the government has introduced training programs to help women access higher-paying jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities. Capacity-building efforts, supported by international agencies, promote women’s economic participation in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Representation in Leadership

Seychelles is known for its relatively high representation of women in government, with women holding about 22.9% of the seats in the national parliament. Despite this achievement, the representation of women in corporate and political leadership positions remains a challenge. In response, the government has introduced leadership development programs aimed at increasing the number of women in senior positions, especially in politics and the corporate sector. These initiatives focus on mentoring young women and providing leadership training to help them rise through the ranks.

Conclusion

Seychelles has made notable progress in promoting women’s rights, particularly in education and political participation. Ongoing efforts, including police reforms, economic empowerment programs and awareness campaigns, are steadily addressing persistent challenges like gender-based violence and economic inequality. Continued collaboration between the government, international organizations and local communities will be key to achieving gender equality. By focusing on solutions and real progress, Seychelles is moving toward a future where women can fully exercise their rights and contribute to national development.

– Fiza Meeraj

Fiza is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr