I. Introduction  

The United Nations Women (UNW) is a global entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. Established in 2010, UN Women works to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, promote women's rights, and create opportunities for women's full participation in social, economic, and political life.

II. Mission and Objectives  

1. Empowerment of Women:  

   UN Women seeks to empower women globally by ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership. It promotes initiatives that enhance women's political participation and economic independence.

2. Elimination of Gender-Based Violence:  

   The organization focuses on ending all forms of violence against women and girls, advocating for stronger legal frameworks, access to justice, and support systems for survivors.

3. Promotion of Gender Equality:  

   UN Women champions the cause of gender equality in every sphere, aiming to create a society where men and women have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.

III. Structure  

1. Executive Director:  

   The Executive Director of UN Women leads the organization, setting its agenda and guiding its operations in various countries.

2. Headquarters and Regional Offices:  

   UN Women operates out of its headquarters in New York, with regional and country offices that implement programs and policies specific to local contexts.

3. Partnerships:  

   The organization works closely with UN member states, civil society organizations, and the private sector to promote its agenda on gender equality and women’s rights.

IV. Key Areas of Focus  

1. Economic Empowerment:  

   UN Women supports programs that help women gain financial independence through education, skill development, and entrepreneurship opportunities. It advocates for equal pay, access to job markets, and fair working conditions.

2. Political Participation:  

   UN Women promotes the involvement of women in leadership roles, whether in government, politics, or the private sector. It encourages gender parity in decision-making positions.

3. Ending Violence Against Women:  

   The organization campaigns to eliminate domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking. It supports legislation that protects women's rights and works to raise awareness about these critical issues.

4. Health and Education:  

   Ensuring access to healthcare and education for women and girls is a priority. UN Women advocates for reproductive rights, maternal health, and equal access to education for girls worldwide.

V. Global Initiatives and Campaigns  

1. HeForShe Campaign:  

   A solidarity movement encouraging men and boys to advocate for gender equality. This initiative calls on men to be champions of change by challenging gender biases in their communities.

2. Generation Equality:  

   Launched in 2020, Generation Equality brings together activists, governments, and corporations to accelerate gender equality and promote women’s rights globally, with a focus on tackling issues like climate change, violence, and economic justice.

3. Safe Cities Initiative:  

   This initiative aims to create safer public spaces for women and girls, reducing harassment and gender-based violence in urban areas through local partnerships and urban planning.

VI. UN Women’s Role in International Policy  

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):  

   UN Women plays a crucial role in advancing the gender-related aspects of the SDGs, particularly Goal 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

2. Global Gender Equality Reports:  

   The organization regularly publishes reports on the status of gender equality worldwide, providing data and analysis to inform policy and advocacy.

3. Participation in UN Bodies:  

   UN Women works with various UN bodies, such as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), to influence global policy and set international standards for gender equality.

VII. Challenges  

1. Cultural and Societal Barriers:  

   Deep-rooted cultural norms and societal attitudes can hinder progress towards gender equality. UN Women works to shift mindsets through education and advocacy, but the pace of change can be slow.

2. Limited Resources:  

   As a global entity, UN Women often faces challenges in securing adequate resources to fully implement its programs and initiatives in all regions, particularly in low-income countries.

3. Political Resistance:  

   In many parts of the world, political structures resist gender parity. Efforts to increase women's participation in governance and leadership often face opposition from traditional power holders.

VIII. Preparing for UNW Debate  

1. Research Gender Issues Globally:  

   Understand the various dimensions of gender inequality in different countries and regions. Focus on issues like women’s rights, political participation, education, and economic empowerment.

2. Analyze Existing Policies:  

   Familiarize yourself with international policies and conventions related to women’s rights, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

3. Propose Practical Solutions:  

   Think about feasible ways to address gender issues through policy reform, public awareness campaigns, and international cooperation. Ensure your proposals are realistic and culturally sensitive.

This guide provides an overview of UN Women’s efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, helping you prepare for thoughtful discussions at RMMUN.