What are the rights of
women and children in a relationship
Answers
Numerous case studies reveal that children’s rights cannot be guaranteed in a framework that diminishes women’s status and discriminates against women. On the one hand, the struggles to realize the human rights of women and children have much in common because historically women and children have been legally and socially disadvantaged. On the other hand, gender-based discrimination is deeply embedded in childhood and contributes to the continuum of violence that runs through many women’s and girl’s lives. The human rights framework is an effective entry point for analysis and action to promote gender equality and the rights of children.
As stated in UNICEF’s The State of the World’s Children 2007, gender equality is central to realizing children’s rights. Moreover gender equality produces a double dividend: it benefits both children and women. The benefits of gender equality go far beyond their direct impact on children. Gender equality will not only empower women to claim their own rights but will also assist all children, families, communities and countries in the development process. Without gender equality, it will be impossible to create a world of equity, tolerance and shared responsibility – a world that is fit for children.