Integration of gender concerns in the analysis, formulation and monitoring of policies, programmes and projects. Gender considerations must be considered when formulating and implementing population and development programmes for two reasons.
First, there are distinctions between men's and women's positions, which necessitate different approaches. Second, there is a systemic disparity between men and women. There are obvious patterns of women having less access to resources and opportunities throughout the world.
Furthermore, women are consistently under-represented in decision-making processes that influence societies and their own lives. This pattern of inequality is a stumbling block to any society's progress since it limits the opportunities of one-half of its population. When women are prevented from attaining their full potential, that potential is lost to society as a whole. Program design and implementation should make an effort to address one or both of these factors.
Gender equality is important as it is inextricably related to sustainable development and is critical for achieving human rights for all. The overall goal of gender equality is to create a society in which men and women have equal opportunities, rights, and obligations in all aspects of life.