The Australian government ought to reinforce gender-focused strategies in all crisis responses, as stated by Human Rights Watch today, in observance of International Women’s Day. Authorities must recognize that gender equality is vital for global peace, security, and justice by backing women-led organizations and ensuring substantial participation of women in decision-making processes.

In February 2026, Human Rights Watch submitted a proposal to the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade inquiry, regarding gender equality as an imperative for national security and economic stability. Human Rights Watch emphasized the gender-specific consequences of conflict, crises, and climate change; the perilous erosion of the foundational principles outlined in the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security; and the necessity of advocating for a gender-sensitive UN treaty on crimes against humanity.

“International Women’s Day presents a significant opportunity for the Australian government to reflect on gender equality, both domestically and internationally,” remarked Daniela Gavshon, the Australia director at Human Rights Watch. “Human Rights Watch’s submission to the Joint Standing Committee underscores that undermining gender equality contravenes international human rights law, exacerbates instability, and diminishes countries’ resilience to crises.”

In the context of escalating militarism, assaults on women human rights defenders, and endeavors to retract gender rights globally, Australia’s role in promoting and safeguarding the Women, Peace, and Security agenda is of utmost importance, Human Rights Watch asserted.

The Australian government is urged to advocate for the establishment of an international treaty on crimes against humanity, which represents a vital opportunity to enhance international criminal law protections for women and girls and to support initiatives such as the creation of the crime of gender apartheid. Additionally, Australia should broaden asylum pathways for women and girls escaping persecution and adopt a feminist foreign policy that prioritizes the rights of women and girls in all matters of foreign policy, defense, and national security, according to Human Rights Watch.

“Australia possesses the necessary tools to effectively advance women’s rights globally, which includes a foreign minister dedicated to gender equality and an ambassador for gender equality,” Gavshon stated. “The Australian government can establish itself as a global leader in the promotion of women’s and girls’ rights by integrating these issues more significantly into its foreign policy.”