The present report, prepared pursuant to Human Rights Council resolution 31/15, gives an overview of the normative content of women’s right to work. It identifies challenges and refers to good practices implemented by States to move towards full realization of the right of work for women, underscoring the connection between this right and other human rights. The report focuses on three matters in particular: women’s right to decent work, non-discrimination in working conditions, and women’s unpaid work.

The report concludes that commitments made under SDGs 5 and 8—together with the 2030 Agenda—should give a political impetus to advancing women’s equal right to work.

Other conclusions of the report:

• Equality and non-discrimination are fundamental human rights guarantees which apply to the right to work. Addressing the gender-related dimensions of the right to work is crucial, as the labour market reflects the social prejudices and disadvantages that undermine equality and dignity.
• Macroeconomic policies should promote the creation of decent jobs for women.
• Targeted measures should be integrated into employment policies to strengthen women’s employability and reduce their engagement in precarious jobs.
• Labour regulations and policies should provide for specific tools for combating wage gaps, sexual harassment and other types of discrimination in the workplace.
• Sustained efforts are needed to correct the deeply entrenched gender stereotypes that obstruct women’s equal access to opportunities.