WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING AND ADVOCATING GAD IN NATION

BUILDING?

“Fighting for gender equality is not a responsibility for women only. The society should be held

accountable for it too. “

Since time of immemorial, gender equality has been a pressing and crucial issue in society. It

revolves around ensuring that individuals of all genders have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment in

various aspects of life. This encompasses social, economic, political, and cultural spheres. Therefore, in

order to respond to the gender imbalance and inequalities, the Gender and Development Program (GAD)

was developed. According to the Magna Carta of Women or the Republic Act No. 9710, Gender and

Development Program (GAD) define as the development perspective and progress that is participatory

and empowering equitable, sustainable, free from violence, respectful of human rights, supportive of self-

determination and actualization of human potential. As a core value that should be represented in

development choices, it aims to establish gender equality and argues that women are active developers,

not just a passive consumers of development.

Supporting and Advocating Gender and Development Program (GAD) in nation building is

pivotal to foster equal opportunities for all gender. This is to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities

in life, regardless of gender, in areas like social interaction, employment, and education. It is important to

know that when a country prioritizes gender and development, it acknowledges and takes into account the

various demands and contributions both men and women have to offer. Societies can maximize the

potential of its people by promoting equal opportunities. As a result, there is a sense of community and

economic growth in alongside a more equitable and inclusive society. In addition, gender and

development initiatives focus on breaking down stereotypes and discriminatory practices. This fosters a

culture of respect and understanding, promoting social cohesion and harmony within the nation.
 Overall, advocating and supporting Gender and Development Program (GAD) means making a

firm stand for equal opportunities and it shows that as a nation, we leverage the strengths of all

individuals, creating a more balanced and thriving society, and ultimately contributing to the sustainable

development and progress of the nation.