Woman and man facing each other holding tea cups while sitting on benches
Muhammad Qadeer/CARE

Pakistani entrepreneur Shajahan sharing a cup of tea.

Program

Gender equality

Women and girls face some of the greatest challenges – but they also hold extraordinary potential to change lives. Empowering them is at the heart of our work.

1 in 3 women across the world have faced sexual or physical violence. They suffer more with hunger and earn significantly less than men, 20% on average. Women and girls also disproportionately bear the burden of household and childcare work.  

This striking inequality is not only unfair but also impacts all of society. With the support they deserve, women and girls have the unique potential to uplift their communities. Global GDP could gain $13 trillion by 2030 through investments in equality for women and girls.  

We cannot fight poverty until women and girls have the same rights and opportunities as men and boys – what is known as gender equality. 

By 2030, CARE aims to empower 50 million women and girls to experience greater equality.

Engaging men and boys 

Men and boys are essential allies to achieving equality for women and girls. They help change the false beliefs and harmful traditions in society that perpetuate violence, pay gaps, and many other injustices. 

CARE and our partners promote reflection and action among men and boys. For example, the Indashyikirwa program in Rwanda worked with families to explore how they could benefit from women working and participating in household decisions. With both partners working, income and food security increased for the entire family. 

It’s simple: when everyone has the same opportunities, we all win. 

How CARE promotes gender equality 

Equality for women and girls is at the heart of our work. For more than 30 years, it has shaped every program, campaign, and partnership we’ve built. 

By 2030, CARE aims to empower 50 million women and girls to experience greater equality. We will achieve this by working in three main areas: ending violence against women and girls; promoting access to quality education and skills; and strengthening their voices and leadership.  

We’ve also developed proven tools that help us – and our peers and partners - achieve these goals more effectively. Scroll down to learn more.