#CSW61 focuses on women in the changing world of work

Gender inequality in the workplace could cost the world an estimated US$12 trillion in global growth over the next decade, according to a 2015 study. UN Secretary-General António Guterres quoted the staggering figure in his first address to the Commission on the Status of Women which opened in the UN General Assembly Hall on Monday. CSW, now in its 61st year, helps to shape global standards on gender equality and women's empowerment. Dianne Penn reports.

Actress Patricia Arquette joins UN fight to close gender pay gap

Activists, celebrities and governments are joining the UN to combat what they describe as the "great robbery" of pay inequality. On global average, women workers earn 23 per cent less than their male counterparts doing the same job. Academy Award-winning actress Patricia Arquette is part of the UN’s Equal Pay Platform of Champions launched this week. She told Jon Sweeney about the personal reasons that inspired her participation.

Afghanistan remains difficult place to be a woman: UN special envoy

Afghanistan remains one of the most difficult places in the world to be a woman, although the country has taken steps to advance women’s rights. That’s what the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for the country, Tadimichi Yamamoto, told members of the Security Council on Friday. The Government recently launched a plan that recognises women as key economic actors whose contribution to the country’s future is important. Jocelyne Sambira has more.

Presenter: Dianne Penn

Production Assistant: Sandra Guy

Duration: 10’00″