Throughout its first half century, the United Nations has served as a catalyst for the global advancement of women. Working to promote the principles of gender equality and non-discrimination enshrined in the Organization's Charter, the United Nations has been instrumental in promoting recognition of women's fundamental human rights, in codifying those rights in legally bi Throughout its first half century, the United Nations has served as a catalyst for the global advancement of women. Working to promote the principles of gender equality and non-discrimination enshrined in the Organization's Charter, the United Nations has been instrumental in promoting recognition of women's fundamental human rights, in codifying those rights in legally binding international agreements and in forstering greater understanding of the central role played by women in peace-building and in economic and social development.