Our Scans · (LF.5) Gender Equality · Weekly Summary

In September 2015, 193 world leaders agreed to 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. If these Goals are completed, it would mean an end to extreme poverty, inequality and climate change by 2030.
Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower women and girls.

• [New] There are changes taking effect in 2026, including new questions about gender and sexuality, which one expert says will make it probably the most progressive census Australia has ever seen. The Guardian
• [New] As artificial intelligence reshapes how people work, communicate and access information, UN Women warned on Monday that the technology is reproducing old gender stereotypes, which amplify online abuse and leave women out of the decisions that will define the digital future. UN News
• [New] From 2026, all new ICF programmes will contribute to gender equality and an increasing portion will target gender equality as a principal objective. / UK GOV.UK
• [New] Without gender equity in water access and leadership, achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which targets universal access to water and sanitation by 2030, will remain out of reach. Forbes
• [New] By 2026, facial treatments will embrace radical inclusivity, with protocols for all skin tones, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds. Australian Beauty School
• [New] Science and gender equality are both vital for the world to reach its full potential. Beyond Borders
• The EESC opinion 'Gender equality strategy 2026-2030' underlines that gender equality is not only a matter of fundamental rights, but also of Europe's economic resilience and competitiveness. European Economic and Social Committee
• The European Commission's new Gender Equality Strategy for 2026-2030 aims to advance equality between women and men across the EU and address persistent challenges such as gender pay gaps, unequal caring responsibilities and gender-based violence. European Economic and Social Committee
• The brisk growth of artificial intelligence may worsen existing gender inequalities and pose new risks to the human rights of women and girls worldwide. Yale Law School

Last updated: 10 August 2026