Men and women for gender equality

Youth are agents of change, and builders of the future.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sport, and in coordination with the National Council for Women, UN Women is expanding innovative mechanisms to raise youth awareness, and promote their advocacy and championing related to women’s empowerment and gender equality. This includes the use of sport, civic engagement and scientific and entrepreneurial innovation as mediums for encouraging youth participation that protects and promotes women’s equal participation in society.

Youth Initiatives currently conducted by UNWOMEN Egypt Country Office include:

Model Commission of the Status of Women (CSW): In coordination with the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Cairo University, the Model CSW was developed to support the promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment among university students. Built on a simulation of the global UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) conference, over 350 students participated in the pilot year of the model. Students were exposed to activities raising their awareness and capacity on national and international policies that serve to empower women, create job opportunities for young girls and advance social equality.Students will participate each year in an annual conference discussing and developing policies for women’s empowerment and gender equality.

Youth and Innovation for Social Change: In collaboration with UNDP and its youth leadership programme (YLP), UN Women works with young women and men, developing their communication and leadership skills. These young women and men are supported to develop and grow innovative ideas and projects which can serve to improve their communities. 

‘Tok Tok’ Drivers’ Initiative: Under the Global ‘Safe Cities Free from Violence Against Women and Girls’ initiative, UN Women works closely with young ‘toktok’ drivers to change their perceptions on sexual harassment, and engage them as agents of change to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Political Participation:  UN Women works with youth in local communities to develop them as Youth Ambassadors for advocacy and awareness raising on gender equality, women’s empowerment and the importance of political participation within their local communities.

Men and Women for Gender Equality programme: The International Men and Gender Equality Survey (IMAGEs) survey focused on the perception and opinion of young men and women regarding the role of men and women in Egyptian society in relation to equality, health, violence against women and quality of life.

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