The United Nations reports that the world is not making sufficient progress toward attaining gender equality by 2030. On a global level, none of the 18 indicators have either met or come close to meeting the targets, with only one indicator on track.
At the current pace, eradicating child marriage will take approximately 300 years, closing gaps in legal protection will require 286 years, and achieving equal representation in leadership will take 140 years.
The urgency for more professionals to focus on SDG 5 is paramount. In addition to being a moral imperative, gender equality is also a catalyst for sustainable development. Evidence shows that societies benefit economically, socially, and culturally when women and girls are afforded equal opportunities.