Womens Rights

UN: Hundreds of millions of women do not have autonomy over own body

The study titled "My Body is My Own" lists attacks on women in 57 countries, ranging from rape to forced sterilisation to virginity tests and genital mutilation.

How has the UN fared in its gender equality goal?

We look at whether the United Nations –– which has continued to elect a male as its secretary general for the last 75 years –– has been able to make progress on the goal of gender equality and women's rights.

Ronaldo's snubbing of MBS throws a wrench into Saudi tourism drive

The rejection from the global superstar is a public relations disaster for the Kingdom which is trying to find its feet as it diversifies its economy.

Denmark defines rape as sex without explicit consent

Danish law would specify that sexual consent must be given voluntarily and as an expression of an individual’s free will through words or action.

Jailed Saudi activist's health worsens due to torture and hunger strike

Loujain al Hathloul’s activism for women’s rights in Saudi Arabia made her a target of the autocratic state. It led to her being jailed for more than two years on flimsy charges.

'Trapped in my house': Violence against women rises in Covid-19 pandemic

Lockdowns have led to increases in complaints or calls to report domestic abuse in several countries, according to UN data.

Haftar critic shot dead in Libya's Benghazi

Hanan al Barassi, a lawyer and outspoken critic of abuses in areas held by warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia, was assassinated in public, rights groups say.

Egypt's crackdown on social media influencers reignites #Metoo campaign

Human rights activists and social media users have called on Egyptian authorities to release the five female TikTok influencers who were sentenced to two years in prison for “violating public morals."

Does gendered law endanger women?

Despite laws on the books to protect women, most abusers go unpunished. Now, in many countries, lawmakers are even pushing back against those weak laws.

Indian rape victim set ablaze on way to court

The 23-year-old rape victim was on her way to catch a train in Unnao district to attend a hearing when she was doused with kerosene and set on fire, police said.

Lebanon’s revolution is a reawakening for Tripoli women

The uprising has opened a new-found space for women in Lebanon’s traditionally conservative second city as they lead their own fight for change.

Paris protesters march against deadly domestic violence

While France has a progressive reputation and pushes for women’s rights around the world, it has among the highest rates in Europe of domestic violence.