Search / Search Results Date Added to Site: 28th February 2005     Short Summary Title Arab Regional Report on the Ten-year Review and Appraisal of the Beijing Platform for Action Author United Nations Economic and Social Comission for Western Asia (UNESCWA) Publication Date July 2004 Publisher United Nations Economic and Social Comission for Western Asia (UNESCWA) Donor UNESCWA Short Summary This report reviews Arab States' efforts to implement the Beijing Platform for Action (BPfA) and the outcome document of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly. Based on 18 out of 22 country responses to a questionnaire, it reveals strong commitment on the part of most Arab countries to advancing gender equality and empowering women. For example, most Arab States have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), submitted their reports and received the final comments of the Commission on the Status of Women on those reports. Considerable challenges, however, still persist. These include the wide gaps in women's political participation and high female unemployment rates. The report identifies four priority areas that need special attention over the next five years: women and poverty, women and the economy, women's human rights and violence against women. It ends with several recommendations, notably the need for a more detailed review of Arab States' efforts to promote greater equality since Beijing. Summary Source adapted from report Complete Document View PostScript Document (pdf)