"There is a global regression in gender equality"

In its Global Progress Report for Women released this year, Avon examined the difficulties women face against discrimination and their feelings regarding safety. Orkun Gül, Regional President of Avon Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, said that global regression on gender equality is occurring, stating "Our report painfully highlights the insufficient steps being taken to address the challenges women face." Avon, a leading company in the cosmetics sector, has announced the 2024 results of its Global Progress Report, which investigates women's perceptions and experiences regarding their safety. The Global Progress Report for Women 2024, prepared by evaluating survey work conducted with 7,000 women in 7 countries, reveals regression in critical areas of gender equality such as pay, opportunities and decision-making processes.

Regression in pay and opportunities

The report shows an increase in the number of women who believe that pay differences and equality of opportunity remain major issues. Survey results indicate that the proportion of women who believe gender equality is an obstacle to starting their own businesses has risen from 14% to 20%.

9 out of 10 women do not believe in equal opportunity

Approximately 90% of women surveyed say that gender stereotypes are an obstacle to equal opportunity, emphasizing the need to combat societal prejudices. The research indicates that the number of women who believe gender stereotypes are an obstacle to equal opportunity has increased, reaching 9 out of 10. The data also reveals that more than one-third of women (35%) feel 'uncomfortable' in the workplace due to their gender, 17% feel 'unsafe', and 16% feel 'harassed'.

72% of women do not feel safe walking alone

According to the report, a significant portion of women do not feel safe in public spaces and even in the workplace. The survey emphasizes that nearly three-quarters of women (72%) do not feel safe walking or exercising alone in the evenings, 43% do not feel safe on public transport, and 55% do not feel safe getting into a taxi alone.

The workplace can be a safe haven for women

Many women surveyed consider the workplace safe regarding domestic violence concerns despite security concerns. Focusing on women's sense of safety, the report notes that 43% of women view their workplace as a refuge or safe space away from any conflict or abuse at home.

Orkun Gül, Regional President of Avon Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, made the following comments on the matter:

"We clearly see that most women do not feel safe due to gender discrimination they face at home, in the workplace, in the street or in parks, and furthermore, there has been a regression in the gains made in eliminating this discrimination. In this sense, what we need to do as a society is to support women in participating in the economy and reaching their full potential. As Avon, we continue our efforts to create a world where women have gender equality and economic freedom by encouraging the participation of women entrepreneurs in the economy and opening the way to new opportunities. For this purpose, our report aims to provide hope to women while promoting solidarity."

Avon's lasting legacy of women empowerment

For over 137 years, Avon has advocated for women's empowerment, providing millions of women worldwide with flexibility and economic independence through its representative program. Inviting everyone to join the fight for gender equality, Avon has also established partnerships with NGOs and contributed over 91 million dollars to combating violence against women and girls since 2004.