Background

The Division for the Advancement of Women implements capacity development activities, including advisory services, and provides technical expertise and training, on gender equality issues in developing countries.

Upon the request of Governments, the Division provides support to strengthen national capacity for the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action (1995) and the outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly (2000), as well as the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (1979). 

Activities are commonly implemented in collaboration with other United Nations entities, in particular the regional commissions, and include areas such as women’s human rights, violence against women, gender mainstreaming, and strengthening the catalytic roles of the national mechanisms for gender equality.

The Division also has a programme of support for countries emerging from conflict to enhance implementation of the Convention and promote gender equality. The Division’s capacity development programme is closely linked to its work in policy formulation and implementation.

The Division welcomes requests from Governments for technical support and may, within its available resources, provide assistance in the areas indicated above.   It also encourages donors to provide financial support for the Division’s capacity development efforts. The Division acknowledges with appreciation the past contribution of Governments to our programme. For further information please contact the Division at daw@un.org

Click here to view details of our capacity development programmes