What you probably know: A UN Women report recently found that at least 1 million women and girls have lost access to critical support, following aid cuts since January 2025. Two in five organizations dedicated to supporting women globally say they expect to shut down, temporarily or permanently, within the next year. The lack of funding extends beyond humanitarian response, with some organizations reporting declining participation of women in community leadership and advocacy.
What it means: When women are kept out of decision-making or advancement policies, it does not reflect the needs of the community. Evidence suggests that women in leadership are likely to prioritize gender-responsive policies and deliver tangible changes within their communities. Without adequate support, women’s participation declines, limiting their influence and undermining their progress toward equality in countries led by men. The UN reports women are far less likely to be given authority over handling funds, which reflect the institutional bias in decision-making. Without women’s voices helping decide where funding goes, access becomes limited for organizations partnering with UN Women to aid women and girls across various regions.
Why it matters: Political power is still shaped by men, making it harder for women to compete on equal terms. To safeguard democracy, it is important that those who sit at the table reflect the diversity of society. The report shows that women board members are more likely than men to hold advanced degrees, yet less likely to have served as CEOs. This is where the gender power gap emerges, leaving women with the greatest barrier when it comes to advocacy. Boards with more women are more likely to adopt sustainability practices, reducing energy usage, and influencing social change. Without these voices, women’s autonomy becomes reduced and resources shrink.
What happens next: The more girls become educated and empowered with knowledge, the better prepared they are to lead future generations. While funding for women-focused organizations may be cut, U.S. women are still outpacing men when it comes to getting an education. Continued investment in mentorship, leadership development, and equal opportunities is essential to ensure women can translate their knowledge into meaningful change.
