Statement from the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
UN Women statement on recent arrests of women in Herat and reported use of force against civilians
UN Women is gravely concerned by the recent arbitrary arrest and detention of women in Herat, Afghanistan, reportedly in relation to alleged violations of dress requirements imposed by the de facto authorities.
While many women have since been released, the arrests have heightened fear and apprehension among women and girls ... more
Highlights
South Asian nations and UN Women advance regional cooperation on care to boost women’s labour force participation in the region
Landmark regional dialogue in Kathmandu focuses on unlocking opportunities for inclusive economic growth by investing in the care economy and accelerating women’s economic empowerment across South Asia. ... more
In Focus: At the heart of democracy
On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, under the 2026 theme, ‘At the heart of democracy’, UN Women affirms that democracies are strongest when they are inclusive, representative, and accountable - upholding the equality, dignity, protection, and full participation of LGBTIQ+ people ... more
World Environment Day!
Solar-powered greenhouses enable Afghan women to grow food, income and hope
“No matter how hard we worked, we could not grow enough to improve our situation,” Noorhaya* said. “Life has been full of challenges. We live in a simple mud house and most days we depended on basic food like wheat, peas and beans.” ... more
From job seeker to digital skills mentor: How Rahmi used LinkedIn to educate other women
Rahmi Dwi Alyani, a communications graduate and former journalist, she had just turned down a promising job offer in Jakarta, choosing to stay behind when her aunt fell critically ill. While caring for her family felt right, the question remained: How could she build a meaningful career while staying close to home? ... more
🔖 Statements
Afghan women have not given up, nor can we – We must not look away
Monday, 23 June 2025 | UN WOMEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SIMA BAHOUS
Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on the Beijing+30 Review
Thursday, 19 November 2024 | UN WOMEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SIMA BAHOUS
We must step forward – The situation is not hopeless, and we are not helpless
Wednesday, 18 September 2024 | UN WOMEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SIMA BAHOUS
🔖 Update!
Christine Arab, Regional Director
Christine Arab has dedicated over 25 years to advancing gender equality and women’s human rights within the UN System, working across Asia, the Pacific, the Arab States, the Caribbean, the Balkans and the Southern ... more
📸 Featured photo
Hundreds of Thai and international families, students and supporters gathered in Benjakitti Park and at the Thai–Belgian Bridge for “A Safe Journey With Her to End Digital Violence”, a family ride and picnic organised as part of the UNiTE 16 Days of Activism.
Featured video
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Explainer
English with subtitle — UN Women is the global champion for gender equality. As the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and women empowerment, UN Women was established to accelerate progress in meeting their needs worldwide.