Rwanda stands out both in Africa and globally for its efforts in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, and particularly in the area of political participation. Nearly two third (61%) of its parliamentary seats and 55% of cabinet position is held by women, while 4 out of 7 judges in supreme court are women. Significant progress has also been realized on other gender indicators, and in 2022, Rwanda is ranked among top 10 countries (6th globally) that have significantly narrowed gender gap (Global Gender Gap Index, 2022). Globally, the country took the lead on the Generation equality action coalition on ICT and innovation and committed to closing the digital gender divide by 2026. Despite a progressive policy and legislative framework, gender-based violence remains widespread where 46% of women have ever experienced intimate partner violence. Isange One-stop Centers Model was set up around the country to provide a holistic response to victims and survivors of GBV.
UN Women Rwanda works in three areas: