March 6, 2025 – A new global survey has revealed that women are essential to economic growth, but their full participation is being hindered by significant obstacles we are yet to overcome including increased online abuse and the rollback on women’s rights. This latest research, conducted by TEAM LEWIS Foundation in support of HeForShe, underscores the urgent need to protect rights, pursue equality, and prioritize empowerment.

"Humor should unite, not divide!"

This February, UN Women Rwanda launched the #HinduraBlague HeForShe campaign to challenge and eliminate harmful gender stereotypes through respectful and inclusive humor. This initiative is a localized adaptation of the global HeForShe #ChangeThePunchline campaign, which sought to dismantle the public tolerance for sexist humor.

Aashraya with Rachel Vogelstein, Special Assistant to President Biden at the White House Gender Policy Council. 

Howard University—a preeminent Historically Black College and University (HBCU)—is taking a bold and inspiring lead as the only HBCU in the HeForShe Alliance. Through active engagement, inclusive dialogue, and structured commitments, Howard is shaping what male allyship and gender equality look like in higher education.

This year is extra special as we celebrated a decade of HeForShe, a movement that began in 2014 with a simple yet powerful call: to unite people of all genders as advocates for gender equality. Over the past 10 years, HeForShe has grown into a global force for change, empowering individuals, inspiring leaders, and fostering transformative action in communities worldwide.

Saad Amer and Rupi Kaur pose on the carpet of the UN Women HeForShe Summit 2023.