Gender Equality Policy

Abstract

[Foreword]. The content of this policy reflects PAHO’s unwavering commitment to the principles of equity, respect for human rights, and the exercise of citizenship, in addition to its determination to actively participate in global efforts to eliminate all forms of gender discrimination. It is also an expression of the institutional resolve to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of public health practice in the Americas. Pursuant to the gender policy of the World Health Organization and the mandates of the Fourth World Conference on Women, PAHO has formally indicated that it will integrate gender equity considerations into all facets of its work, including technical cooperation, national policy development, and human resource management inside the Organization itself and in health systems. Furthermore, as a critical tool for the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (2001), this policy is geared to achieving Goal 3 —”Promote gender equality and empower women”—which has been emphasized as an end in itself and as a prerequisite for achieving the remaining objectives.