ABSTRACT
It is now widely recognized that ownership and control over assets such as land and housing provide economic security, incentives for taking economic risks that lead to growth, and important economic returns including income. Yet, women in many countries are far less likely than men to enjoy ownership or control of these important assets. Ensuring female property and inheritance rights would help to empower women and rectify a fundamental injustice. Although lack of data on the gender asset gap makes it difficult to determine the precise magnitude of the problem, the available information suggests that the problem is serious in most countries of the world. The task force calls on UN member countries to collect systematic data on women's share of land and housing. Meeting Goal 3 will also require institutional arrangements that enhance the extent and security of women's rights to land, houses, and other productive assets.
