United Nations Radio

Gender inequality remains widespread and deep-rooted in many cultures despite many declarations in support of women's rights.

The report titled: Reaching Common Ground: Culture, Gender and Human Rights, said development strategies which are sensitive to cultural values can reduce harmful practices against women and promote human rights.

It suggests that partnerships between UNFPA and community-based institutions and leaders could promote human rights and end their abuses, such as female genital mutilation.

The head of UNFPA Thoraya Obaid says "human rights are everybody's work, and being culturally sensitive and understanding the context that is everybody's business."

She says "culturally sensitive approaches seek out creative solutions produced within cultures, and work with them."

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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