Gender-based differences

Discrimination on the basis of sex and gender roles – also called Gender discrimination– remains pervasive.
There are very few countries in the world where women are equal to men from the point of view of legal, social and economic rights, and gender gaps are widespread in access to and control over resources, in economic opportunities, in power and political voice.

Gender
Gender refers to the economic, social and cultural attributes and opportunities associated with being male or female in a particular point in time.
Source: Transforming health systems: gender and rights in reproductive health. WHO, 2001.

Gender equality
Gender equality means equal treatment of women and men in laws and policies, and equal access to resources and services within families, communities and society at large.
Source: Transforming health systems: gender and rights in reproductive health. WHO, 2001.

Gender equity
Gender equity means fairness and justice in the distribution of benefits and responsibilities between women and men. It often requires women-specific programmes and policies to end existing inequalities.
Source: Transforming health systems: gender and rights in reproductive health. WHO, 2001.

Gender discrimination
Gender discrimination refers to any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of socially constructed gender roles and norms which prevents a person from enjoying full human rights.
Source: Transforming health systems: gender and rights in reproductive health. WHO, 2001.

Reproductive rights
Reproductive rights rest on the recognition of the basic right of all couples and individuals to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing and timing of their children and to have the information and means to do so, and the right to attain the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health. They also include the right of all to make decisions concerning reproduction free of discrimination, coercion and violence.
Source: ICPD Programme of Action, 1994, para 7.3

Sex

Sex refers to the biological characteristics which define humans as female or male.[These sets of biological characteristics are not mutually exclusive as there are individuals who possess both, but these characteristics tend to differentiate humans as males and females. In general use in many languages, the term sex is often used to mean "sexual activity", but for technical purposes in the context of sexuality and sexual health discussions, the above definition is preferred.]
Source: WHO Draft working definition, October 2002

Sexuality

Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life and encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical and religious and spiritual factors.
Source: WHO Draft working definition, October 2002

Sexual health

Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.
Source: WHO Draft working definition, October 2002

Sexual rights

Sexual rights embrace human rights that are already recognized in national laws, international human rights documents and other consensus documents. These include the right of all persons, free of coercion, discrimination and violence, to:
the highest attainable standard of health in relation to sexuality, including access to sexual and reproductive health care services;
seek, receive and impart information in relation to sexuality;
sexuality education;
respect for bodily integrity;
choice of partner;
decide to be sexually active or not;
consensual sexual relations;
consensual marriage;
decide whether or not, and when to have children; and
pursue a satisfying, safe and pleasurable sexual life.
The responsible exercise of human rights requires that all persons respect the rights of others.
Source: WHO Draft working definition, October 2002