Gender equality: Why is it still up for debate?

In an article for the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, VCDNP Senior Research Associate Federica Dall’Arche discusses a concerning regression in global commitments to gender equality as demonstrated by recent international negotiations, including those focused on nuclear issues.

Dall’Arche highlights how protracted and contentious discussions over the inclusion of gender-equality language in documents and resolutions are becoming the norm and a way to stall negotiations, even in nuclear forums such as the Preparatory Committee of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty or the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The author argues that this practice is emblematic of a disconcerting reluctance to further progress and fully embrace progressive values and rights, undermining not only women and minorities' rights but also casting a shadow over future diplomatic efforts.

“Can nuclear negotiators still afford to waste time arguing over issues that are so fundamental that they should be undebatable and already considered set in stone? Is there really a need to approach topics like gender equality with ’sensitivity,’ fearing that any mention of female empowerment or gender diversity could be problematic? Shouldn’t negotiators already be at the point of discussing how to preserve and strengthen those few hard-won rights, with the aim of expanding them and making negotiation processes more inclusive for everyone’s benefit?”

Dall’Arche calls for the international community to recognize gender equality as a non-negotiable right and to integrate it seamlessly into policy and diplomacy, emphasizing the need for decisive action and unwavering commitment.