ABSTRACT

Most countries in Asia and the Pacific have made impressive strides in recent years in order to close gender gaps and expand opportunities for women and girls. This chapter discusses the interrelationship between gender equality and inclusive, sustainable development and reviews recent trends and remaining gaps related to gender equality and women's empowerment in developing countries of Asia and the Pacific. It considers the gender dimensions of regional trends, including demographic shifts, migration and urbanization, and intensifying climate-related events and risks. The chapter also considers possible pathways to greater gender equality in the region in light of the 2030 Agenda. The 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) endorsed in September 2015 represent a major leap forward from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In contrast to the MDGs, the SDGs were developed through a highly participatory process, they have universal application, and they are much more comprehensive and challenging in scope and substance.