CNLU Inaugurates UNFPA’s Gender Resource Centre to Promote Gender Justice and Legal Research

Patna: In a significant step towards gender equality and legal research, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has partnered with Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) to establish a Gender Resource Centre (GRC) at its Patna campus. The new initiative aims to conduct evidence-based research in the fields of gender, law, and policy while promoting advocacy and awareness on gender justice issues in India.

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Signed Between CNLU and UNFPA

On Thursday, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Andrea M Wojnar, UNFPA Representative for India and Country Director for Bhutan, and Professor Faizan Mustafa, Vice-Chancellor of CNLU. This partnership signifies a long-standing dialogue between the two institutions regarding the establishment of a center dedicated to legal research and gender justice advocacy.

According to a statement issued by CNLU, the GRC will bring together leading academicians, researchers, advocates, and civil society activists to drive policy-oriented research on gender-based violence, gender-sensitive law reforms, and constitutional rights of women in India.

Objectives of the Gender Resource Centre (GRC)

The newly inaugurated Gender Resource Centre at CNLU is designed to serve multiple purposes, including:

Evidence-based Research: Conducting comprehensive studies on gender issues, focusing on gaps in existing legal frameworks and policy implementations.
Advocacy for Gender Justice: Engaging in public advocacy campaigns to promote gender-sensitive legislation and social reforms.
Capacity Building Programs: Training professionals, legal practitioners, and students to enhance gender sensitivity in legal proceedings.
Special Courses & Training Modules: Introducing specialized courses and academic programs focusing on gender, law, and human rights.
Reducing Child Marriages in Bihar: Conducting research and active field interventions to mitigate child marriages and promote awareness.

Gender Inequality and Legal Gaps in India

While addressing the audience at the inauguration ceremony, Andrea M Wojnar emphasized the deeply rooted gender inequalities in India. She highlighted that despite multiple government policies aimed at promoting gender justice, the actual implementation remains weak due to socio-cultural barriers and systemic gaps. Wojnar also pointed out that religious myths often contribute to the violation of women’s rights, further exacerbating gender disparities.

Bihar, in particular, faces unique challenges, with high rates of gender-based violence, child marriages, and limited access to justice for women. The GRC at CNLU is expected to bridge these gaps by conducting research and advocating for evidence-based public policies.

Professor Faizan Mustafa Calls for a Shift in Legal Education

In his address, Professor Faizan Mustafa expressed concern over the decline in academic focus on gender and law in legal education. He noted that law students and faculty members are increasingly prioritizing emerging legal fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) law, Cyber Law, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Law, and Taxation Law, often neglecting crucial issues like gender justice and human rights.

Professor Mustafa further emphasized that achieving true gender equality requires more than just legal reforms. He remarked that implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) alone will not resolve gender-based discrimination unless there is a fundamental change in the patriarchal mindset that continues to treat women as inferior and subordinate.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks to Combat Gender-Based Violence

Deepa Prasad, Chief of Programs and Technical Support at UNFPA, stated that the GRC at CNLU will focus on capacity-building initiatives that address gender-based violence. She expressed optimism that the center will develop special training programs to equip legal professionals, social workers, and activists with the necessary skills to support victims of gender-based violence and drive meaningful legal changes.

With rising cases of sexual violence and discriminatory legal practices, there is an urgent need for a robust legal framework that ensures justice for victims and strict accountability for perpetrators. The establishment of the GRC is expected to contribute significantly to strengthening gender-sensitive legal mechanisms in India.

Conclusion: A Milestone for Gender Justice in India

The inauguration of the Gender Resource Centre at CNLU marks a significant milestone in the fight for gender justice in India. By fostering research, legal education, and policy advocacy, the center aims to bring about meaningful change in gender rights and legal frameworks.

With collaborative efforts from UNFPA, CNLU, and civil society organizations, the GRC is poised to make a lasting impact in addressing gender-based violence, promoting constitutional rights, and empowering women across Bihar and beyond.

As India progresses towards achieving gender equality, initiatives like the GRC serve as crucial platforms for legal innovation, social transformation, and advocacy for a more inclusive and equitable society.

gender justice, legal research, gender equality in India, UNFPA CNLU partnership, gender-based violence,

Disclaimer: The information provided on RozgarVaani.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, please verify details from official sources. For any queries, contact us at hello@rozgarvaani.com.