Around the World in 5 is an ongoing series that highlights news related to women in five countries, updated every week. This week’s post covers January 14 to January 19.
Global
Research from the World Economic Forum and McKinsey Health Institute reveals that focusing on improving women’s health could boost the global economy by at least $1 trillion annually.
The study highlights disparities, showing women are diagnosed with diseases later than men, with delays of two and a half years for cancer and four and a half years for metabolic diseases.
Additionally, women often experience poor health for 25 percent longer than men, emphasizing the need for more accurate and comprehensive research into women’s health conditions.
New Zealand
A New Zealand lawmaker, Golriz Ghahraman, has resigned amid an ongoing investigation into multiple allegations of shoplifting.
The Green Party member, previously the nation’s first refugee with government status, cited work-related stress as a factor for her out-of-character conduct. Ghahrarman held the justice portfolio for her party.
Pakistan
The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has urged government agencies to ensure a secure, unbiased, and non-discriminatory environment for women and girls in the upcoming elections.
Emphasizing the principles of gender equality and empowerment, the NCSW calls for measures to prevent discrimination, harassment, and violence, noting the importance of creating an inclusive and safe space for women and girls to participate in the electoral process.
Kenya
Kenya is grappling with a surge in gender-based violence, with at least four brutal murders of women reported this year. The case of 26-year-old Starlet Wahu, allegedly stabbed by a man linked to a criminal group targeting women on dating sites, has sparked widespread concern.
Social media campaigns like #StopKillingWomen and #EndFemicideKe have emerged. Femicide Count Kenya recorded 152 killings in 2023, the highest in five years, while 2022 data revealed over one in three Kenyan women experiencing physical violence. Leaders, including Raila Odinga, term the situation a “national emergency,” prompting calls for increased action from rights groups.
France
The French Assemblée Nationale’s Laws Committee has taken the initial step towards constitutionalizing abortion access, approving draft language to establish it as a “guaranteed freedom” for women.
Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti clarified the intention is to provide constitutional protection without altering existing legislation or creating an absolute, unlimited right to abortion.
Proposed by President Macron’s minority government, the constitutional amendment necessitates support from three-fifths of both the National Assembly lower house and the Senate for approval.
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