Agenda Item: Addressing the Socio-Cultural Roots of Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination within Traditional Family Systems in Developing Countries

Gender-based violence and discrimination in many developing countries are deeply rooted in socio-cultural norms within traditional family systems. These harmful norms limit women’s and girls’ rights, restrict access to education and economic opportunities, and reinforce cycles of inequality across generations.

UN Women calls for urgent, community-driven action that goes beyond legal reform. Sustainable change requires transforming harmful social norms, promoting gender-equal education, empowering women economically, and engaging men and boys as partners in change.

If we fail to address the cultural roots of inequality today, we risk perpetuating violence and discrimination for future generations. Equality begins with the choices we make today.