An academic from Queen’s University Belfast is to take on a gender equality role at UNESCO.
Professor Maria Lohan from the School of Nursing and Midwifery has been appointed as the first UNESCO chair in gender equality, focusing on ‘masculinities and gender equality’.
The aim of the new role will be to “improve understanding of the best ways to engage men and boys in support of gender equality for women and girls - and to improve men and boys’ lives alongside”.
Prof Lohan said it will be “such a privilege to work with UNESCO and the United Nations organisations whose work can reach millions where it matters most”.
Queen’s vice-chancellor Prof Sir Ian Greer, said the appointment “both reflects and bolsters Prof Lohan’s forefront role in leading globally impactful research on engaging men and boys in support of gender equality”.
“Prof Lohan has generated sustainable and effective interventions to reduce gender inequality and enhance health and education.”
James Bridge, chief executive and secretary general, UK national commission for UNESCO said: “Since 2007 gender equality has been designated a global priority for UNESCO.
“To maximise gender equality for women and girls, it is essential to engage men and boys, so the establishment of this UNESCO chair will support global understanding of the best ways to do this, with particular focus on comprehensive sexuality education for boys.”
