Equality
Assesing the challenges and the strategies in achieving the
Sustainable Development GoalsReport from a conference on
Gender (SDG5), organised by UN House Edinburgh with the support of
UNA Scotland. Written by Jenny Holt (UNA Edinburgh) et al.
Table of Contents
Introduction, ‘UN Gender Equality Event’
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Soroptimists International
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The Young Women’s Movement
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ACTS
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Shakti Women’s Aid
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DARF- Ending FGM
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International Justice Mission
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Engender
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AVOSVO- Women in Leadership
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Women 50:50
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List of NGO Websites
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Indicators for Monitoring the Progress of
Sustainable Development Goal 5
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UN Gender Equality Event
27th November 2015
“Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”
Sustainable Development Goal 5

End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.

Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres,
including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.

Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital
mutilation.

Recognize and value unpaid care and domestic work through the provision of public services,
infrastructure and social protection policies and the promotion of shared responsibility within
the household and the family as nationally appropriate.

Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all
levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life.

Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in
accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and
Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review
conferences.

Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to
ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance and
natural resources, in accordance with national laws.

Enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications
technology, to promote the empowerment of women
Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality
and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels.
On 27 November 2015, the UN House Scotland was pleased to organise the Gender Equality
Event at the University of Edinburgh. The aim was to facilitate civil society discussion on issues
surrounding the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 5.
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The following organisations contributed to this event: The Young Women's Movement; Action
of Churches Together in Scotland; Shakti Women's Aid; Women 50:50; Association of Chief
Officers of Scottish Voluntary Organisations; International Justice Mission; Engender; Dignity
Alert and Research Forum.
A number of wide-ranging themes were discussed including the role of women in politics and
leadership, continued protection of rights for girls and women most vulnerable, and embracing
and enlarging femininity. Case studies were focused on the current situation within Scotland
and some within the rest of the United Kingdom. Whilst much progress has been seen, gender
equality is still a relevant issue within British society. For the United Kingdom to achieve Goal 5
many issues still need to be engaged with. The following report outlines these. Each NGO has
contributed information relevant to the remit of ongoing work and findings within Scotland and
the rest of the UK. Whilst some areas overlap in issues highlighted, each organisation has
attempted to pinpoint what they see as the most significant challenges and complexities of
ongoing gender inequality.
Both Lydia Moore (Project Manager of UN House and Secretary of UNA Edinburgh) and
Gameeda Barnard (UN House Intern Coordinator) were responsible for organising this event,
and we take this opportunity to thank their excellent roles. Coordinating this Report was Jenny
Holt (UN House, UNA Edinburgh), who gives many thanks to the following rapporteurs for time
and reporting of the event: Letizia Becchelli, Nick Deas, David Murphy, and Charlotte Bell. Of
particular significance to the creation of this report was the time and guidance given by Dr Gari
Donn, Executive Director of UN House Edinburgh, to whom we give many thanks.
In response to Sustainable Development Goal 5, this Report attempts to find overall indicators
highlighted by qualitative data provided by each charity during this event. We encourage these
to be used as the basis of a framework for accounting changes and the speedy implementation
of SDG 5 within Scottish society.
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Soroptimist International
The keynote speaker of this event was Pat Black, past president of Soroptimist International. This is a
global women’s rights organisation accredited through ECOSOC to the UN. Working as a lobbyist for UN
agencies, Pat spoke of the importance of both bottom-up and top-down policy making. In opening this
event she exalted Global Goal 5 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a “spectacular
achievement.” Whilst there are nine targets within the goal, the championing of women recurs through
the overarching agenda. One example lies in Goal 17, which promotes empowering women through
partnerships.
Pat talked of the importance of these goals: each target and each goal speaks of hope and truth.
However, the truths held remain in our collective hands, and in turn are malleable to our treatment.
Everyone has a responsibility in determining the future of these precious goals.
How do we actively protect and enshrine?
Responding to this responsibility, the question remains of how we, as individuals and organisations,
actively promote and therefore define the impact of the Sustainable Development Goals. Pat Black
proffered two fundamentals necessary for achieving SDG 5:

Behaviour: Civil Society has a role in making government accountable, as well as responding to
incidents of inequality when faced by them. Challenging and remaining brave is key.

Creating Indicators: this is an extremely important and practical step we can all take. We should
be finding indicators within our own spheres that can elucidate over time success and failure.
Continuous evaluation can reveal our progress and effectiveness of strategies. This allows for
improvement and progression.
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The Young Women’s Movement (YWCA)
Background to the Organisation
The YWCA talk, entitled ‘In Our Own Voices’ started with a brief history of the organisation.
YWCA was founded in 1855 by two women to mirror the already established and respected
YMCA in England. YWCA originally stood for the Young Women’s Christian Association,
however, in Scotland they are simply called the Young Women’s Movement. Whilst still using
the acronym YWCA, the organisation has secularised with the intention of being overtly open to
women of all faiths and those of none. Therefore, the organisation provides all women with a
safe environment to speak out and feel respected, celebrated and empowered. The YWCA
movement has brought women together in diverse contexts – from affordable housing and
social clubs for women in segregated occupations, to groups for mothers isolated in new towns.
Each of these settings help women uphold their rights through collaborative support and
consequent empowerment.
Hearing our voices
The work of the organisation is based on feminist foundations. The Young Women’s
Movement’s objective is, as a result of this, to tackle all shapes and forms of inequality and
striving for change. An example of this in action is the professional development programme,
‘In Our Own Voices.’ Created for tutors, facilitators, coordinators and practitioners who share
YWCA’s commitment to gender equality, the programme works with groups of women and
girls. The programme has encouraged women and girls to find their own voice and speak out
confidently when women are valued less than men.
The beginnings of this programme can be found in the Status of Young Women in Scotland
(SYWS) report which was written, produced and designed by young women. Edinburgh-based
social researchers, ‘The Lines Between,’ carried out interviews with over sixty young women
aged 16-30. During these interviews the interviewees considered their #GenderLightbulb
moments- moments when they realised that they had been treated differently because of their
gender- and reflected upon how gender affects their lives. The Young Women’s Movement also
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created a #GenderLightbulb moments site where women from across Scotland could submit
stories of their experiences, allowing an insight into issues affecting the lives of women in
Scotland.
The Status of Young Women in Scotland report offers a platform for women’s voices in
different areas such as: education, politics, employment, family & relationships, media &
stereotypes, and safety. Each of these #GenderLightbulb moments experienced by women
across Scotland provides insight into ‘under the surface’ discrimination still present today.
YWCA Scotland hope to encourage discussion in order to work towards achieving gender
equality.
Conclusions from the report
● Some young women participating began with the assumption that they had not been
treated differently due to their gender. Discussion led to each participant starting from
this perspective then realising that gender had affected their lives in some way.
● Participants did not encounter discussions around this until later in life (University
courses; professional experiences; reading books).
● Women without higher education are much more likely to go into ‘gendered’ roles. For
example modern apprenticeships are highly gendered. In civil engineering programmes
0.8% participants are women. In Child Care apprenticeships 95% participants are
women. Of hairdressing apprenticeships 97% participants are women.
● 87% of young women in Scotland feel more judged on their appearance than their
ability
● Out of girls in relationships between the ages of 13-17:
One third will experience sexual violence;
One quarter will experience physical violence.
● During the referendum campaign, women felt politically included and empowered.
However, the norm for those interviewed is experiencing frustration due to ongoing
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inequality rooted in the misrepresentation in the meida media and general attitudes
undermining women in politics.
Ally Crockford and Victoria Wickes of YMCA encouraged attendees to keep up with the
organisation’s progress by becoming affiliates; accessing branded, equality-assured
programmes, mentoring, a CPD programme and free membership for women and girls in
groups.
Membership connects women and girls with the worldwide movement, creates opportunities
both locally and worldwide and offers a platform from which their voices can be heard.
To read the ‘Status of Young Women in Scotland’ report, follow the link: http://goo.gl/WR80yX
ACTS – Action of Churches Together in Scotland
Anti-Human Trafficking
Hazel Watson represented ACTS (Action of Churches Together). Explaining that the AntiTrafficking Group set up in 2011, Hazel raised awareness during her speech of the complexity of
the issue of human trafficking. The Group was set up to act as an ecumenical network to
exchange information between Member Churches about activities concerning human
trafficking and to develop policies, actions and resources about human trafficking and its
victims. The group also raises awareness of the subject in wider civil society and campaigns and
lobbies Government and organisations, as appropriate, and encourages churches and
individuals to become involved.
Set up during the year before the Commonwealth Games, the group met with representative of
statutory services and third sector organisations to gather information on potential increases in
forced labour, particularly in the construction of the Games’ venues, or in sexual exploitation –
often common in any event which attracts large crowds of people. Hazel noted, thankfully, that
no rise in human trafficking was recorded during the Commonwealth Games period.
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What constitutes human trafficking?
The ‘Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and
Children’ – supplementing the UN Convention against Translation Organised Crime of 2000 –
developed the first legal framework for the identification of the human trafficking. The Protocol
identifies trafficking as recruiting, moving or harbouring of persons by means of threat,
coercion or deception- for the purpose of exploitation.
Hazel Watson provided case studies first reported as part of the Equality and Human Rights
Commission Inquiry into Human Trafficking in Scotland, carried out over the course of 2010/11
and chaired by Baroness Helena Kennedy. She also presented case studied from an
investigation conducted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation into forced labour in the
agriculture sector in the UK. Cited were cases involving a variety of sectors: a young man lured
to Scotland on the promise of training but forced into providing unpaid labour; a young woman
kidnapped from her home and forced into prostitution; foreign workers in agriculture forced
into poorly paid work in Tayside after having their passports taken from them; men forced into
work into gruelling and poorly-paid work in the Scottish fishing industry. The list is extensive.
This elucidates the complexities surrounding the issue of whether trafficking should be viewed
as a women’s only issue. Data from 2011 shows that of the 1481 referrals to the National
Referral Mechanism, 1066 (72%) were female. This information corroborates findings by UN
Office on Drugs and Crime research indicating that victims of trafficking are mostly young
women forced into prostitution and exploited in the commercial sex industry. However, Hazel
warned that the proportion of male victims is rising and that victimisation of men should not be
forgotten when analysing this issue. When evaluating issues of gender equality, the core
mechanism should revolve around treatment of those vulnerable. Focusing all attention onto
women victim of trafficking could potentially result in overlooking the needs of victimised men.
The impact of this dynamic is to inversely sustain gender inequality. For a holistic and durable
approach to creating equity and equality, this consideration must influence our engagement
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with issues such as trafficking and different forms of slavery within the United Kingdom. Hazel
also pointed out that the covert nature of human trafficking means that it is not possible to be
certain about actual numbers of people who are explited and enslaved. What we can be certain
about, however, is that whenever it happens, a fellow human being is oppressed, robbed of
dignity and subject to humiliation, misery and psychological and physical violence.
As can be observed from the far-reaching nature and many faces of exploitation presented, the
work of the ACTS Anti-Human Trafficking Group is crucial in raising awareness within Scottish
society. Cases of human trafficking are ongoing throughout the UK are not simply something
which happens beyond our shores.
Shakti Women’s Aid
Ashley Thomson of Shakti Women’s Aid, introduced us to the organisation’s work in helping
black minority ethnic (BME) women, children and young people who have been, or are
currently, experiencing domestic abuse. Operating as an outreach programme, Shakti Women’s
Aid deal specifically with women who have a visible ethnic difference as they are subject to
many barriers when accessing mainstream services.
Target 2 of Goal 5 states; “Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the
public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.”
Issues that can be faced by BME women under the remit of domestic violence can also include:
Female genital mutilation; forced marriage; and LGBTI -based violence (threats of ‘outing’ to
family/’curing’). Within Scotland domestic abuse remains widespread. Women are more likely
than men to be victims of domestic abuse, regardless of race. However, women who
experience other forms of discrimination, such as racism, often experience further barriers to
finding the support they so desperately need.
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Currently, Shakti Women’s Aid is based in Fife, Stirling and Dundee. Ashley Thompson acts as a
out-reach support officer, and due to this has first hand knowledge of the difficulties
exacerbated by the treatment of women due to the colour of their skin.
Ashley talked about different women and young girls she has helped. Frequently, these women
are isolated in society, particularly if they have immigrated into the UK. Due to changing policies
the particular women who appear most vulnerable to isolation have been withdrawn support.
Soroptimists International are supporting these women through lobbying on this new issue,
however, life is getting worse for these vulnerable women.
Info point: What is No Recourse to Public Funds?
‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ most often impacts women who have immigrated into the
Scotland through marriage. If victims of domestic abuse, this lack of ability to access funds
further isolates these vulnerable women from the services and charities which could help
support them.
This means that these women cannot be helped by charities and NGOs giving: basic
information; emotional support; raising awareness of legal rights; or advocacy support.
Why is it so important as an issue in Women’s Rights?
The result of this lack of support increases isolation, compounding the situation for these
vulnerable women.
Amnesty International reported: “Fundamental to the protection of women’s right to life when
they are subject to or fleeing gender based violence is ‘life saving and critical’ access to…
support. In all cases examined… women’s rights have been violated at different points, starting
with the act of violence itself.” The Report continues, “The fact that women with insecure
immigration status are not guaranteed access to safe, secure and appropriate accommodation
and support means that their right to life, liberty and security of person is constantly under
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threat.”
What should be achieved?
- Access to publically funded services involving: advice and information; advocacy services; and
emotional support.
-This does not mean access to benefits services, instead this purely engages with issues of our
fundamental human right to safety.
What Campaigns are going on about this and where can you receive help?
Southall Black Sisters: Abolish No Recourse to Public Funds Campaign
(http://www.southallblacksisters.org.uk/)
The Women’s Resource Centre’s campaign (http://thewomensresourcecentre.org.uk/ourwork/no-recourse-to-public-funds/)
Rights of Women provide an advice line with free and confidential legal advice on immigration
issues. Call women lawyers on: 020 7251 8887
What can you do?
Tweeting and using other forms of media to raise awareness of the vulnerabilities of those
particularly vulnerable to domestic abuse is encouraged. Trafficked women, or women who
have migrated but lack rights to access public funds, are the most vulnerable. The role of civil
society is extremely important in raising the profile of those without a voice.
DARF – Ending FGM
Whilst female genital mutilation (FGM) has become a more high-profile issue in recent years,
Dignity Alert and Research Forum (DARF) operates as the only charity singularly championing
this issue. Fiona Tait, representing DARF, highlights FGM as a prime target area for the Scottish
Government to engage with in responding to SDG 5.
What is FGM?
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FGM primarily involves the removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. In
the Western world, it is generally termed FGM so as to emphasize that it is a harmful practice;
Fiona noted that the alternative names (such as female circumcision or genital cutting) neglect
to highlight the seriousness of it. There are both short and long term negative effects on health,
such as the potential for infection, blood loss, as well as difficulties in childbirth and
menstruation.
Why does FGM occur?
Occurring in many different groups, communities quote a variety of reasons for this practice.
FGM is often validated by religious reasons, however religious studies have proved this basis to
be untrue. It does not appear in the Qur’an nor in the bible. Therefore, it is better explained as
cultural phenomena sometimes falsely looking for legitimacy through claims to religious texts.
A reason often claimed is that of hygiene and cleanliness, with some communities deeming
women to be naturally unclean. FGM can also be practiced for the sake of preserving virginity
and chastity, with it being presented as a means of suppressing women’s otherwise
“uncontrollable sexual urges.” Often done for the sake of increasing pleasure for the man, this
reason highlights the inequality FGM is steeped in.
Prevalence
Data currently shows FGM in 29 different countries, mostly in Africa. 130 million women
worldwide have endured it. The degree of prevalence within practicing countries varies
significantly, with countries like Somalia seen as the most extreme with 98% of women having
undergone it. In Nigeria the percentage is significantly lower at 27%, with some parts of Nigeria
having a very high rate and some parts almost entirely absent of it. Due to immigration, there is
evidence that communities in Scotland practice FGM, despite its illegality.
Ending FGM
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Fiona noted three key points to keep in mind in the endeavour to end FGM. The first is that we
must understand the reasons for doing it before we can know how to stop it. Given that there is
a wide range of reasons for its practice, Fiona emphasized that there is no “one-size-fits-all”
approach to ending FGM.
In DARF’s view prevention is more important than prosecution. Illegality doesn’t mean that it
will not happen. “Our aim should be to prevent practice in the first place,” Fiona highlighted.
Ultimately, Fiona suggests that the elimination of FGM can only occur through changing
attitudes towards it. Communities must believe that it no longer needs to happen. This entails
raising awareness through education. Enhancing people’s understanding of why it happens and
why it needs to be stopped is vital to this process of ending FGM in Scotland. DARF have found
many Scottish nurses doctors, social workers and police to be unaware of what FGM is and how
it differs to circumcision. Misunderstanding can led to a lack of response when people look for
help, or an undermining of the gravity of this extremely important issue. Education is important
for all of Scottish society in understanding and tackling this issue.
The next stage is to make it OK to start conversations about Female Genital Mutilation. FGM is
often stigmatized in the communities where it is practiced. Encouraging and normalising
discussion around this practice will help empower young girls to speak up if they can anticipate
support rather than isolation.
DARF aims to enable these conversations whilst promoting growing awareness of this issue
throughout Scotland.
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International Justice Mission
‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,’ Andy Bevan of IJM
Andy Bevan spoke on behalf of the International Justice Mission (IJM), an organisation that
looks to rescue victims; bring criminals to justice; restore survivors; and strengthen justice
systems. Bevan sees a hope for attaining the ambitious targets set out in Goal 5.
Through seeing the work done by IJM, Bevan was encouraged that we can stay motivated in our
task of working towards Goal 5, each taking steps within our own spheres.
Hope arising amidst brokenness: Mien’s story
Illustrated by Mien’s story- in the start of the millennium, the Cambodian sex industry was rife
with exploitation, especially of young women. It became a well-known destination for
paedophiles to travel to. At the age of 14, a young Cambodian girl called Mien was sold into
sexual slavery due to her family’s severe poverty. Like numerous other poor young women, she
was subjected to rape and gender based violence. IJM identified that the ‘laws’ themselves
weren’t the real issue; it was the corruption involved with carrying out these laws. Therefore,
IJM worked alongside with the justice system in Cambodia to rescue people like Mien. In 2003,
the organisation carried out a rescue mission that saved 36 girls. Mien, however, hid during the
operation, indoctrinated with the fear instilled by her captors that she would be prosecuted if
caught. She was found and rescued in a subsequent mission carried out by IJM, in conjunction
with local police.
Having been looked after in a rehabilitation home, Mien regained her confidence. Now Mien
uses her experience and knowledge to help others who are recovering from exploitation in the
sex trade. Andy highlighted that Mien’s story illustrates the transformation taking place in
Cambodia. At the start of the millennium, sexual exploitation of under 15’s was between 15-
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30%. This has now been reduced to 0.1%. This number is still too high, but it does indicate a
solid basis for hope in these young women’s lives.
Bevan encouraged a civic response to Goal 5- achieving gender equality is about societal change
and requires a response and brave attitude from us all. Sharing of this information can provide
others who feel desolate about the challenges facing women a light of hope. Acts like this will
provide encouragement, serve to motivate, and ultimately provoke change.
International Justice Mission works across the globe and, as such, is just one example of the
many Scottish organisations promoting women’s rights internationally. Although Scotland still
has areas to be address in the challenge of achieving gender equality, the work of IJM highlights
that as a nation we have skills and developments to offer externally in the plight of victimised
and vulnerable women.
Within Edinburgh, IJM is active in many aspects of society. During 2016 students will have the
opportunity to become involved through the initiative ‘Stand for Freedom.’ For more
information on how International Justice Mission work and ways to get involved in Scotland,
please go to ijmuk.org
Engender
Engender is a holistic feminist organisation that has worked in Scotland for 20 years to advance
equality between women and men. Welcoming anyone who identifies as a feminist, Engender
is linked into networks of women’s organisations in Scotland, such as Women 50:50, along with
others in the United Kingdom and the European Union.
In this spirit, Engender promoted the ’16 Days of Action campaign’ as a multi-lateral movement
run throughout many organisations within civil society. 16 Days of Action raises awareness of
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domestic violence in our communities each year, and is a strong avenue for promoting target 2
of SDG 5.
Target 2: “Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and
private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.”
Women live with gender inequality daily, in ways that range from explicit discrimination and
breaches of our human rights, to the relentless undermining portrayals of women in the media
and public domain. Taking place each year, these 16 days provide continued opportunity for
challenging the “under the surface” issue of domestic violence still very relevant to the lives of
many within Scottish society.
‘Why Gender Matters in Holyrood 2016’ was the second topic of conversation inputted to this
seminar, with the hope of encouraging women into politics and stopping inequality. The Gender
Matters Manifesto: Twenty for 2016, published by Engender, highlights gender issues prevalent
in Scotland, progress achieved, and challenges still facing gender-equality. The twenty steps to
be taken in the next Scottish Parliament elections in 2016 present an opportunity for political
parties to show leadership on gender equality and take bold action. Alice spoke that “these two
elements are needed to truly address intractable problems like endemic violence against
women, our unjust and unsustainable economy, and social-insecurity for women.” Alice talked
of the impact of current political policies on women. She states that 85% of austerity cuts have
effectively come from women’s pay, due to the distribution of societal roles and our valuations
placed upon them. Politics, she highlights, should be about fair representation. 45 years ago the
equal pay act came into force, and almost 100 years ago women over 30 were first extended
the franchise through the 1918 Reform Act. In the 2016 elections gender equality should weigh
heavily, especially in the wake of the tremendous Global Goals.
Alice drew attention to the way the Engender Manifesto sets out to do this. Concentrating on
the following 9 areas, segmentation provides opportunity for finding indications of success and
progression in the attempt to achieve Goal 5: politics and power, fair economy, care, social
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security, labour market and employment, education and training, media and culture, violence
against women and women’s rights. Whilst the scale of issues may seem overwhelming, this act
of breaking down and pinpointing can provide impetus for moving forward in awareness and
accountability. Achievable Goals do exist, and it is the role of civil society and political
institutions to ensure that issues facing those vulnerable to discrimination and violence within
society are supported in a tangible way.
How can people get involved and help?
Engender is calling for diverse groups of women to be involved in designing and delivering the
steps to progressive change that they have set out, as one key route towards achieving these
core aims of gender equality and empowerment for women.
ACOSVO – Women in Leadership
Pat Armstrong of ACOSVO began her discussion of women in leadership by showcasing the
thoughts of three young women that she works with.
Kirsten, her programme officer, had picked up on articles criticizing women for using words
such as “sorry” and “just” too much in the workplace, the claim being that women should use
more masculine language. But Kirsten does not agree: men should have more humility by sitting
back and listening to women – she said, there is no need for women to change.
Emily, ACOSVO’s development officer, drew attention to the important statistics which display
the pay gap and under-representation of women, noting that only 30% of charity chief
executives are women.
Finally, ACOSVO’s marketing and communication officer, Danielle, discussed the problem with
considerations of women’s appearance still taking centre stage in situations such as job
interviews: why, in such instances, isn’t the focus on our skills and talents?
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Pat then reflected back on her journey into a leadership role. Growing up in the 1960s and
1970s in an estate North of Edinburgh, she recalled the best-selling book when she was 17:
Superwoman: Every Woman’s Book of Household Management by Shirley Conran. The book’s
underlying message was this; we, women, are free to have it all. But having it all as a woman
seemed daunting- we must have a good job, a happy family, and a happy husband. In reflection,
Pat sees this list as actually still being rooted in societal expectations, rather than being steeped
in the freedom initially conveyed.
When Pat obtained a job in a bank after leaving school, she had a number of “gender light bulb”
moments in which she realised something was not right. Working in a bank setting, traditionally
male dominated, she saw it was commonplace that if you met and subsequently married a
colleague from the bank, the women would be forced to leave. When she expressed a wish to
do a banking exam, she was put off for years as “only men” did banking exams. When the head
teller at her bank retired, she was promoted. However, this was only on a temporary basis until
an older man was found for the job.
Later, as a financial controller, work became unfeasible due to familial responsibilities. As she
moved to work various jobs from home, she began her journey into the third sector by doing
some work with the Women’s Project, where she went on to work for ten years. This
organization supported her to return and think about her career and potential as a leader. By
1995, she had dismissed the prescriptions of attaining it all. This brings her back to Conran’s
idea of the “superwoman”: is there a way in which women can survive in leadership once
traditional societal expectations have been left behind? Considering obstacles still in place,
breaking apart the answer to this question can be very important.
While we move up the career ladder, Pat urges us to think about the hand at the top of the
ladder. Such a focus allows us to consider questions of how we can be helped up the ladder and
how we can help the people coming along behind us.
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Pat Armstrong’s survival tips: be BRAVE
Bounce-ability: when we hit rock bottom, how do we bounce back? How do we get
through and manage the obstacles we encounter?
Reflection: It is easy to just keep on going, but Pat encourages us to step out and look
back at the context we are working in. For example, we might ask: how would we do
things differently?
Authenticity: It is important not to forget to keep a bit of ourselves in everything that
we do.
Versatility: To be a leader, we must be able to do whatever needs to be done. But we
also must consider how we can make connections and take opportunities to exert our
influence.
Escape: For a leadership role, Pat says that we must have an escape mechanism.
Pat highlights that being ‘superwomen’ it is not as simple as was made out in the 1970s.
Although society is changing, to have a family and succeed professionally still comes with
complications as a woman. Acknowledgement of this, and following the steps above, is just one
way of helping these two aspects of life be held up together, without weighing women down.
Women 50:50
Talat Yaqoob, chair and co-founder of Women 50:50, began by asking those present to share
examples of main issues facing women in society today in terms of social justice. Violence
against women, media sexism, unfair societal expectations, unequal pay and discrimination
against women in the workplace were just some of the problem areas evoked by audience
members.
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Yaqoob explained that, in the wake of the Scottish Referendum on Independence of September
2014, she and a group of colleagues saw an opportunity to channel the resulting sudden surge
in political activity into gender equality. When considering whom one might lobby when
attempting to address any such issue, complications arise when considering the lack of women
in politics able to make these changes. If more women were involved in making political
decisions, Yaqoob argues that the likelihood of change would increase dramatically. For
example, equal pay would be a reality not merely legislation. The current reality of this,
however, is that for the same job women are paid 17% less on average than a man. Although
women make up the majority of the workforce, they disproportionately make up 20% of private
boards and ‘top jobs.’
From this disparity, Women 50:50 was conceived. The campaign fights for legislation-backed
quotas guaranteeing equal representation of women and men on ballots for public boards, in
councils and in Parliament. The campaign asks that every political party active in Scotland
ensure that at least 50% of their candidates in every election are women, in order that the
ballot paper might be reflective of the society in which we live. Yaqoob pointed out that,
although all three of Scotland’s dominant political parties – Labour, the Conservatives and the
Scottish National Party (SNP) – are currently led by women, the public should not be deceived
into thinking that equality has been achieved. Indeed, far from it: in Holyrood, only 35% of
Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs) are women – a figure which has decreased since 2007,
the year in which the Parliament boasted a record 40% female MSPs. Meanwhile, only 36% of
public board members in Scotland are women and in Scotland’s councils the picture is even
bleaker, with only 24% women councillors making those important decisions affecting our
everyday life – the highest these figures have ever been.
Myths about women and politics
Yaqoob went on to dispel some of the myths and prejudices surrounding women and politics.
- Women are not as interested in politics as men.
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- That if women wanted to obtain positions in politics they would already have them. Yaqoob
highlights that the logic of this statement necessitates women to have 35% the merit of their
male counterparts.
Rather than reflecting merit and abilities, this disparity more truly reflects current inequalities
within society and its impact on women’s self-efficacy within certain professional fields.
Women 50:50 works to combat these myths daily.
Whereas mechanisms such as all-women shortlists have had limited success in the past, they
tend to stop working at the 35% equal representation mark, Yaqoob informed. Gender equality,
she declared, will be not be simply given to women. Rather, it must be fought for. Hence the
importance of remarks made by the First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, during a recent
Women 50:50 conference, whereby she referred to the campaign as one of the most significant
in Scotland and announced her full backing. Sturgeon has also announced that she will be
pursing legislative change to ensure that parties present 50% female candidates in
parliamentary elections. Now, 52% of MSPs and a majority of party leaders are signed up to
support Women 50:50, and it is time for councils and public boards to follow suite. At the
current rate of change, Yaqoob calculated, 50 years will have passed before we achieve equal
representation in this field. One day without a fair number of women in Parliament, however, is
one day too long and an injustice to the competency of women in Scotland.
NGO websites for further information
Soroptimists International
http://www.soroptimistinternational.org/
The Young Women’s Movement
http://www.ywcascotland.org/
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ACTS- Action of Churches Together in Scotland
http://www.acts-scotland.org/activities/anti-human-trafficking
Shakti Women’s Aid
http://shaktiedinburgh.co.uk/
DARF- Dignity Alert and Research Forum
http://www.darf.org.uk/
International Justice Mission
https://www.ijm.org/
Engender
http://www.engender.org.uk/
ACOSVO- Association of Chief Officers of Scottish Voluntary Organisations
http://www.acosvo.org.uk/
Women 50:50
http://www.women5050.org/
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Indicators for monitoring the progress of Sustainable Development Goal 5
Systems for monitoring the progress of efforts to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and
girls” have been identified as vital for creating accountability and continued effort in this endeavour.
In response to the content of the Gender Equality Event, a list of possible indicators has been created.
This is intended to act as a basis for other organisation to develop and nuance. This list is not extensive,
and shall go through revision during 2016.
Engaging with discrimination in all forms is something, which requires a creative approach of analysis.
Rather than something fully quantifiable, research must bridge this with the qualitative for a holistic
understanding of changes.
The work of NGOs so far shall be mentioned below, and it is our hope that this work shall continue and
comparisons be made. It is from this collective work that a whole picture can be taken regarding how
close Scotland is to achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
We encourage all NGOs dealing with the issue of Women’s Rights in Scotland to each think of, and write
down, indicators that they believe would help monitor the progress of the implementation of
Sustainable Development Goal 5.
The following indicators are broken down into the eight target areas of the goal to, “Achieve gender
equality and empower all women and girls.”
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1) End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
Employment; Education: Societal Expectations.
Education is seen as vital towards employment, societal expectations, and the self-efficacy of young
girls.
However, as this report has shown, life for many young women who have not gone into higher
education have often gone into very gender based roles. (YWCA)
Findings by the YWCA show that when young girls start talking about ‘light build moments’ they often
recognise for the first time discrimination facing them. This recognition is the first step towards
empowerment
Indicators:


How many high schools talk about gender equality issues in 1st and 2nd year Personal
Social Education classes.
Through schemes like the Young Scot (currently promoting the Sustainable
Development Goals) how many girls and boys are participating in gender-based
‘Sustainable Activities.’ Increases of engagement with programmes similar to this will
indicate probable growing awareness amongst young teenagers of the importance of
gender equality.
2) Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres,
including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
The information provided by Shakti was important concerning the ‘private sphere’ violence that takes
place within Scotland. An increase number in reports of violence would inversely suggest that there is a
reduction in the feeling of isolation and an increase in anticipation for support when asking for help.
Statistics combined from organisations focused on helping victims of domestic abuse can shine a light on
the number of people receiving support. Any released qualitative data can provide a better indication of
any progress made within this area.
Women who have migrated to Scotland but no longer have the appropriate documentation are
particularly vulnerable to domestic abuse, as they have no recourse to public funds. This means that
they are not even able to talk to charities, for example like Shakti Women’s Aid, which could otherwise
help them learn about the different support systems in place.
Public Sphere violence towards women most often happens in the form of trafficking, sexual
exploitation and domestic servitude. In October 2015 the Scottish Government passed the ‘Human
Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Bill,’ which introduces legislation criminalising the act of human
trafficking and any involvement within this process, regardless of any notion of consent.
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Indicators


The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) provides annual statistic on the number of
victims trafficked, and how many of these have been exploited in the sex trade
Organisations throughout Scotland that actively support women in moving out of
prostitution. Statistical data from these organisations can be compared against NRM
data. An increase in the percentage helped, with either a consistent or decreasing
number being recognised by NRM should indicate positive change in this area. It is
acknowledged that this information is, however, imperfect due to the difficulty in
acquiring information of the realities on the ground.
3) Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital
mutilation.



Increase in Education at all levels: through professional training (police, doctors, nurses,
social workers); and in primary schools and high schools. Normalising discussion around
female genital mutilation, DARF has found, increases the likelihood of young girls and
women reaching out for support.
Prompt different professional bodies to collate information of the training covering FGM
to employees/students- suggest that this is passed on to either UNA-UK, UN House, or
organisations specifically promoting this issue such as DARF. Annual review of the
growing/decreasing reach.
Link UN presence with civil society in particular through out-reach to community
centres. Encourage community centres discuss harmful practices against women, and
report back with periodic updates to UN House Edinburgh.
4) Recognise and value unpaid care and domestic work through the provision of public services,
infrastructure and social protection policies and the promotion of shared responsibility within the
household and the family as nationally appropriate.



Regarding ‘social protection policies,’ the success or failure of the collective campaigns
against ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ for women experiencing domestic abuse
Comparative analysis in 2016-20 of statistics provided by The Young Women’s
Movement on the number of young girls in ‘gendered apprenticeships’, as outlined in
the 2015 Report on the Status of Young Women in Scotland.
Continued analysis of the impact of austerity disproportionately affecting women,
having been funded through cuts to women’s incomes (Engender: pages 15-17).
5) Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels
of decision-making in political, economic and public life.
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


The number of Scottish political parties signed up to the Women 50:50 pledge.
Continued analysis of the number of women sitting on Council and Public Boards, the
level of responsibility held, and for them to follow in the footsteps of political parties in
signing pledges to present 50% female candidates in elections for positions on the
boards.
Transparency from the private sector through reviews on the gender statistics within
companies. Comparative analysis and working towards a target reflecting the substance
of the Women 50:50 campaigns.
6) Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in
accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and
Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review
conferences.



Continued analysis of the impact of the Curriculum for Excellence, and the depth and
engagement with sexual and reproductive health learning across Scottish Education.
Monitoring parliamentary discussion and policy changes currently ongoing over social
and personal education in Scotland.1
Use of ISD Scotland as an indicator and monitoring of progress. Specifically, all reports
related to Sexual Health (Teenage Pregancies; Termination Statistics; LARC Key Clinical
Indicator) can be used to monitor any falls in unexpected pregnancy. This can be one
simple way of stepping into analysis of Scottish citizen’s reproductive rights and health. 2
Areas to be monitored:
1. The disparity between men and women regarding popular fact and myth. I.e.
awareness of condomns as not 100% effective; how alcohol and antibiotics can make
some versions of the pill non-operational; the impact of ‘missing a day’ to be null.
2. Support for young mothers. We recognise that ‘reproductive rights’ extends beyond
pregnancy and that vulnerable young women and men should be supported when
entering into parenthood.
3. The impact of ‘postcode lottery’ on sexual health and rights learning and access to
support.
7) Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to
ownership and control over land and other forms of property, finical services, inheritance and natural
resources, in accordance with national laws.

Updates as a result of engagement with specialists with knowledge of any ongoing
issues within this area.
1
NHS in Scotland 2015, audit-scotland.gov.uk/report/nhs-in-scotland-2015
Data Augmentation for Sexual Health (DASH), idscotland.org/Health-Topics/SexualHealth/
2
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8) Enhance the use of enabling technology in particular information and communications technology,
to promote the empowerment of women.


Assessment of computer literacy within Scotland, particularly among the less educated.
Analysis from e-learning sites of the percentage of women participating from Scotland.
For example, empowering sites like ‘Future Learn,’ which promote learning skills and
knowledge without monetary barriers.
9) Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender
equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels.

The speediness and quality of legislation passed in response to inequalities
compounding the rights and empowerment of women and girls
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