NEW YORK (October 16, 2012)– This week, the US Department of State launched the online edition of Women in the World Today, which includes a Preface by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, and an Overview by US Ambassador for Global Women’s Issues Melanne Verveer. The book covers 12 critical areas of concern identified at the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, including a section on Women and the Environment, with an overview and introduction by WEDO Executive Director, Cate Owren.

The book addresses:

• The persistent and increasing burden of poverty on women
• Inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to education and training
• Inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to health care and related services
• Violence against women
• The effects of armed or other kinds of conflict on women, including those living under foreign occupation
• Inequality in economic structures and policies, in all forms of productive activities and in access to resources
• Inequality between men and women in the sharing of power and decision making at all levels
• Insufficient mechanisms at all levels to promote the advancement of women
• Lack of respect for and inadequate promotion and protection of the human rights of women
• Stereotyping of women and inequality in women’s access to and participation in all communication systems, especially in the media
• Gender inequalities in the management of natural resources and in the safeguarding of the environment
• Persistent discrimination against and violation of the rights of the girl child

Click here to READ ONLINE or DOWNLOAD the book.