Conflict and violence are important factors obstructing progress on the MDGs (World Bank, 2011). It has been argued that the post-2015 framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) must address the most common drivers of conflict and violence (Saferworld & Conciliation Resources, 2014). Several international organisations, including DFID and the OECD, called for a stand-alone goal on gender equality and women’s empowerment to be included in the SDGs (Saferworld & Conciliation Resources, 2014; OECD, 2013b; UN, 2013). This was included as ‘Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’. Its proposed targets include ending all forms of discrimination and violence against all women and girls. The SDGs also include ‘Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels’. This goal’s proposed targets include ‘significantly reduce all forms of violence’.
A stronger focus on gender equality could provide an impetus to improve the availability and quality of gender equality data and statistical capacity building, resulting in better tracking of progress. Calls to integrate gender-specific targets and indicators in the other MDG goals include separate monitoring for men and women, or boys and girls, where appropriate (OECD, 2013b).
- OECD. (2013b). Gender equality and women’s rights in the post-2015 agenda: A foundation for sustainable development. (OECD and post-2015 reflections, Element 3, Paper 1). Paris, OECD.
See full text - Saferworld & Conciliation Resources. (2014). Gender, violence and peace: a post-2015 development agenda. London: Conciliation Resources.
See full text - UN. (2013). A new global partnership: Eradicate poverty and transform economies through sustainable development (The report of the High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the post-2015 development agenda). New York: UN.
See full text - World Bank. (2011). Conflict, security and development: World Development Report 2011. Washington, DC: World Bank.
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