Brief summary of presentation of information made

• Hong Kong joined CEDAW in 1996 and published reports in 1998 and 2000
• Laws were passed against sex discrimination in 1995, against family status discrinimination in 1997
• Equal opportunities Commission in 1997
• 85% of complaints to the commission are still sexual harassment or pregnancy related.
• The Women’s government Commission established in 2001 provides a central mechanism for upholding women’s rights
• In 2016 still women lag behind men in economic participation especially in top positions. Men are better rewarded financially, men are educated more than women and there are more women who work part time.
• Women’s Commission is trying to improve situation by working on creating an enabling environment, mainstreaming gender equality as an issue, mentorship and learning to develop women leaders and encouraging them to join government advisory bodies and committees
• Professional Women’s study (although small and methodology open to criticism) part of He for She UN initiative.
• Study involved 30 married professional couples with children using interviews 
• Found differences in couples divided into categories He For She and He not for She
• Conclusions – main barriers to women in professional work were cultural norms, gender stereotypes and business practices 
• Gender stereotypes- men directional role, women childcare
• Business practices where men unwilling to hire women especially mothers
• Suggested ways of improving situation, mutual respect, Listening support and encouragement.
• Family relationships with parents and children needs everyone to participate
• He for She is a starting point to raise awareness of gender equity and encourages men to stand up for women. 

What was of particular significance to share with The Salvation Army globally?

It was interesting that the only 2 people in the room who had shared domestic chores with the spouse were the Salvation Army delegates. Well done Salvation Army men and keep up the good work.

Tags: United Nations, Women, SDG5: Gender Equality