You can change the lives of women in poverty around the world
Women and girls, particularly those in poverty, constantly face gender discrimination, inequality and economic hardship. This year alone, there are estimated to be 388 million women and girls worldwide living in extreme poverty.
Since 2013, our dedicated Women for the World community have made remarkable strides, changing countless lives of women in poverty worldwide, helping provide education, developing livelihoods and improving healthcare and protection for some of the most vulnerable women and girls in marginalised communities.
We invite you to take a stand and join thousands of Australians by fundraising or donating to Women for the World. Only together can we give our sisters living in poverty the support they truly deserve.
Help transform lives today
60%
of working people living in poverty are women
388 million
women living in extreme poverty
90%
of countries have at least one law that discriminates against women
Help women like Rosalie
This Women for the World Report provides an analysis of research undertaken to gain an understanding of the relevance to Australians of gender issues in Australia and across the Pacific region.
Some Alarming Facts About Women in Poverty
By understanding these challenges, we can develop targeted solutions to empower these women. Your generous support can provide resources to overcome these barriers, offering a path out of poverty and towards a more equitable future.
Disproportionate Impact
Poverty disproportionately affects women, further exacerbating the gender inequality gap. In many societies, socio-cultural norms limit women's access to education and economic opportunities, increasing their vulnerability to poverty.
Educational Gap
Globally, for every 100 boys of primary school age who are out of school, there are 122 girls in the same situation. Lack of education leads to limited job opportunities, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
Gender Wage Gap
The gender wage gap is a persistent problem worldwide. The International Labor Organization states that women earn approximately 20% less than men globally. This wage disparity, combined with a higher likelihood of part-time work and employment in low-paid sectors, increases women's risk of poverty.
Healthcare Disparities
Access to health services remains an issue for impoverished women. They often lack the resources for routine and emergency healthcare, maternal health services, and are more vulnerable to infectious diseases.
Domestic and Sexual Violence
Women living in poverty are more likely to experience domestic and sexual violence, with severe physical and psychological consequences. Additionally, these experiences can limit their ability to gain financial independence.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change disproportionately affects women in poverty. Women, especially those in rural areas, bear the brunt of adapting to climate change effects because they are often more dependent on natural resources for their livelihood.