Introduction The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo in 1994 and the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995 revolutionized the international standards for the rights and health of the world?s women.			Women and Poverty Recognizing that women suffer the burden of poverty disproportionately, the Beijing Platform for Action urges the international community to shape development strategies to address the needs and efforts of women in poverty.
		Education and Training of Women Recognizing education as a human right that is often curtailed for or denied to women in much of the world, the Beijing Platform for Action urges governments and private organizations to ensure equal access to education.			Women and Health The Beijing Platform for Action endorses women's right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, but notes that most women do not do so.
		Violence against Women Violence against women is increasingly recognized by the international community as a violation of their rights as human beings.			Women and Armed Conflict The Beijing Platform for Action addressed the effects of war on women and their often crucial role as peace educators in their families and societies.
		Women and the Economy Women's economic dependence and, often, lack of rights to property or access to finance have long crippled their ability to take care of themselves and their families.			Women in Power and Decision-making In many countries, measures have been taken to increase the representation of women in all levels of government and decision-making. Progress has, however, been slow. In all countries, women are still underrepresented, especially in ministerial and other executive and legislative bodies.
		Institutional Mechanisms for the Advancement of Women Many countries have invested in the establishment or strengthening of their national machineries for the advancement of women. However, in many instances these are still marginalized, under-staffed and under-funded.			Human Rights of Women There is still a pressing need to guarantee reproductive and sexual rights, as evidenced by worldwide violations of women's human rights, such as high rates of maternal mortality, unsafe abortion, sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancy, in particular among adolescents.
		Women and the Media Radio, television, theatre and the Internet are powerful mediums for advocacy of gender equality and the status of women. Yet the media can also reinforce stereotyped images of women and their roles in society. Women?s access to and control over the various forms of modern and traditional media is still limited in most societies.			Women and the Environment Any hope the world has for sustainable development must take women into account.
		The Girl-child The unequal burden of being female begins at birth and continues throughout childhood. Young women face many health risks, yet they receive inadequate information, guidance and services to help them to go safely through adolescence to adulthood. This is especially the case for their reproductive and sexual health.			References