There exists a pressing global mental health crisis that demands immediate action, and its most profound repercussions are experienced by girls and women, whose rights are facing setbacks worldwide. Three experts in the field of gender equality delve into the mental and emotional well-being of girls and women.
Amina J. Mohammed, while speaking at the Generation Equality Midpoint Moment during the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly, highlighted the emergence of “a silent pandemic in the lives of many of our young women.” The Deputy Secretary-General emphasized the gravity of this crisis and asserted that true gender equality, along with all 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals, will remain elusive until we confront this issue head-on.
Amidst the expanding discourse on mental health, members of the UN Foundation’s Girls and Women Strategy team—Sia Nowrojee, Stephanie Oula, and Mary Jerome—are examining this crisis through the lens of gender equality. They are witnessing the growing attention that feminist organizations, movements, and private sector entities are dedicating to this issue. Now more than ever, it is imperative to incorporate healing justice and prioritize mental health in their efforts, ensuring that no girl or woman is forced to endure suffering in silence.
