Definition of Gender
SDG 5: Gender Equality Pieter Lamper SDG 5: Gender Equality Pieter Lamper

Definition of Gender

Gender refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male, female, or other identities, distinct from biological sex. It is a social construct that varies across cultures and time periods, allowing for recognition of diverse gender identities. Gender equality is the state where individuals access the same rights and opportunities regardless of their gender identity or expression. The principles of equality aim to eliminate discrimination and ensure all people can participate fully in society. However, gender and equality are interlinked, as societal norms often create power imbalances that privilege certain groups, typically men and boys, while subjugating others, such as women and gender-diverse individuals. Countries with significant gender inequality, including Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Chad, and South Sudan, exemplify this issue through restrictive laws and cultural practices that limit women's rights and freedoms, perpetuating inequality. The suffering caused by gender inequality manifests in restricted autonomy, limited access to education and healthcare, and high rates of gender-based violence. This systemic discrimination underscores the urgent need for addressing the social factors that perpetuate gender inequity to achieve genuine equality and improve the lives of all individuals.

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The Global Challenge of Zero Hunger
SDG 2: Zero Hunger Pieter Lamper SDG 2: Zero Hunger Pieter Lamper

The Global Challenge of Zero Hunger

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) aims to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030. Currently, 828 million people are hungry, with 349 million facing severe hunger, primarily due to conflict, climate change, poverty, and food waste. Conflict is a major barrier to achieving zero hunger, with nearly 60% of the hungriest individuals living in conflict zones, perpetuating cycles of violence and food insecurity. Climate change exacerbates hunger through extreme weather events that disrupt food access and economies. Additionally, poverty and inequality are root causes of global hunger, with declines in bee populations threatening agricultural productivity. Despite producing enough food globally, about 40% is wasted in high-income countries, while low-income countries experience significant loss during growth and storage. Malnutrition affects nearly 3 billion people in various forms, including undernutrition and obesity. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified food insecurity, reversing years of progress and pushing millions into undernourishment. The economic impacts of the pandemic have increased global poverty for the first time since 1990, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action across sectors to achieve zero hunger and improve global food systems.

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