Highlighted by a Non-governmental Organisation, the Life After Abuse Foundation has brought attention to the systemic gender bias against men within the United Nations. The foundation is urging the UN to prioritize promoting gender equality and acknowledging the contributions of men in society.
Ms Halima Layeni, the Founder and President of the Foundation, emphasized this in a statement released from Lagos.
In her statement, Layeni pointed out that the UN has consistently undervalued the significance of celebrating men and their roles in society, especially on occasions like Father’s Day.
Internationally, Father’s Day is commemorated to honor the vital roles fathers and father figures play in their families’ lives.
Although dates for Father’s Day vary across different countries, the common choice is the third Sunday in June, a day dedicated to celebrating fatherhood and male parenting.
Layeni criticized the UN for its seemingly biased approach towards gender equality, citing a dismissive attitude towards the unacknowledged sacrifices made by fathers, husbands, and sons.
She noted that despite the UN’s claims to advocate for marginalized groups, men often remain invisible in its initiatives.
Expressing her concerns, she highlighted the detrimental impact of the UN’s silence, perpetuating a narrative that undermines the worthiness of men for recognition and celebration.
Such attitudes, according to Layeni, not only harm men but also have broad implications for families, communities, and society as a whole.
“Despite the United Nations’ grand commitments towards achieving a fair and equitable world, it consistently overlooks days dedicated to honoring men.
“This lack of recognition for half of the global population serves as a glaring example of the deep-rooted gender bias prevalent within your organization.
“While the UN actively celebrates various days dedicated to women’s achievements, such as International Women’s Day (March 8), International Girls’ Day (October 11), International Day of the Girl Child (October 11), Women’s History Month (March), International Women’s Day of Peace and Disarmament (May 24),
Layeni pointed out the evident discrepancy in how men are acknowledged and celebrated by the UN,” she remarked.
She emphasized the absence of UN-sanctioned celebrations dedicated to men or boys, a disparity that perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and biases. This omission contributes to limiting men’s ability to express emotions, seek assistance, and pursue non-traditional roles.
Layeni also highlighted the neglect of men’s unique challenges, including their higher rates of suicide, homelessness, and incarceration.
“Hence, I call for accountability from the United Nations. It is time for the UN to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of men.
“Recognition of the value of fathers, the influence of positive male role models, and the sacrifices men make for their families and communities is long overdue,” she urged.
Layeni expressed her hope for a prompt response and a constructive plan of action by the UN to tackle this issue.
She stressed that the global community is observant, and men deserve better treatment, emphasizing the urgent need for the United Nations to align its actions with its principles and genuinely promote gender equality for all.
“Failure to act will have extensive repercussions, fostering a world where men are marginalized, boys are disenfranchised, and families endure hardships.
“It will undermine the credibility and authority of the UN, revealing its commitments to gender equality as mere rhetoric,” she declared.
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