Under this umbrella, UN Women has partnered with FIFA on two calls to action that will feature prominently throughout the tournament. The first, Unite for Gender Equality, seeks to recognize gender equality as a fundamental human right and as critical for a peaceful and sustainable world. The second, Unite for Ending Violence against Women, serves as a call to end violence and abuse worldwide. 

Unite for Gender Equality will be the featured message on the third day of competition while the call to action again violence will be front and centre during the semi-finals.

The two calls to action will be promoted via the team captains’ armbands, pitch-side digital LED boards, and social media. 

Five other UN agencies have also joined the campaign in addition to UN Women, including UNESCO, UNHCR, UN Human Rights Commission, the World Food Programme, and the World Health Organization. 

'Inspirational’ strength and skill 

“The women competing in this World Cup are role models for every girl on this planet,” said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous. 

“Their strength and skills are inspirational. At the same time, this tournament is a reminder that there are too many women and girls who are excluded from the world of sport, and that even for those who do participate, too often experience discriminatory treatment and, even in some cases, abuse”, added the UN gender equality champion. 

“The Women’s World Cup shows us how much not only they but the whole world misses out on when we fail to afford women and girls the same opportunities as men and boys. Our partnership with FIFA, including on the global ‘Football Unites the World’ campaign, reflects a serious commitment and ambition to address that for everyone’s benefit.” 

Donations towards these initiatives that will help UN Women in the fight for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in sport, can be made here.