Many people associate equality with fairness and uniformity, assuming everyone requires the same support and that one solution fits all. However, this notion is a misconception. On the other hand, equity emphasizes access and opportunity, acknowledging that individuals begin with unique advantages and disadvantages and require different means to achieve success. 

Diversity is understanding and respecting individual differences, such as physical appearance, beliefs, and socio-economic background. Acknowledging diversity is essential for building an inclusive culture where differences are embraced and not alienated. Now, let's explore the difference between equity and equality.

Diversity is understanding and 
respecting individual differences

A visual example shows how providing the same solution, like a box for everyone to see over a fence, does not work for all individuals. On the equality side, there are three individuals: a tall person, a short person, and a person in a wheelchair. They are all trying to watch a football game, but there's a fence blocking their view. Each person has been given a box to stand on, but it's not working. This is equivalent to providing the same resources to everyone equally, regardless of their needs. The result is not great: The tall person needs nothing because they can already see over the fence, the short person barely manages to see, and the person in the wheelchair can't see at all, as they have no way to use the box. 

On the equity side of the picture, each individual has been given precisely what they require to see the game. The person in the wheelchair has a ramp to get to the top and see the game, the short girl has two boxes, and the tall person has no boxes because they don't need any extra assistance in the first place. Equity is a process, which means it's continuous. We can't achieve equity by changing just one thing.

Imagine you are a teacher and planning an activity for your class. You have students who are good at math and others who are better at writing. Instead of designing an activity solely focusing on maths or writing, you create an activity involving both math and writing.     

For example, you can have the students divide into groups and ensure that there are as many writers as mathematicians in each group. You ask each group to write a recipe of their choosing, including measurements and cooking instructions. Then, have them double or triple the recipe and calculate the new quantities required to make it. Finally, they can make the recipe in class (with adult supervision) and enjoy the results! This way, you are also being equitable by providing a way for both groups to contribute and succeed in the activity.    

Equity requires power, resources
and social responsibility. 

Equity requires power, resources, and social responsibility to work hand in hand to change the structures and provide opportunities to those who have been institutionally left out, marginalized, or oppressed. It's hard, but it's essential to work together for positive change to happen in the lives of those who have been historically depicted as less than others.     

In Yemen, women face significant challenges related to gender inequality, including limited access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and political representation.
   

Equality means treating everyone the same, regardless of their background or circumstances. However, treating women the same as men in Yemen does not address the systemic barriers preventing them from accessing the same opportunities and resources.    

On the other hand, equity recognizes that women in Yemen face unique challenges and require tailored solutions to address these issues. This means providing women with the resources and support they need to overcome the barriers they face. For example, it could involve creating targeted policies and programmes to address discriminatory laws and practices that prevent women from participating in political and social spheres.   

Women in Yemen face unique
challenges and require tailored
solutions. 

To achieve gender equity in Yemen, focusing on short-term and long-term strategies that consider women's unique experiences and needs is essential. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes addressing the root causes of gender inequality, such as discriminatory laws and practices, as well as providing targeted support to women to help them overcome the barriers they face.    

The concepts of equality and equity take on a crucial significance for women, particularly those who are internally displaced, Muhammasheen, or living with disabilities. These groups often experience additional barriers to accessing basic needs, such as food, water, shelter, education, and healthcare.  

The situation for women in Yemen is dire, with the ongoing conflict leading to high displacement rates. Women who are internally displaced often face a significant challenge in accessing safe and secure shelter and basic necessities like food and water.   

A more equitable approach is
needed, recognizing structural
and systemic constraints. 

Muhammasheen women, who are part of Yemen's marginalized and stigmatized community, are often subjected to discrimination and social exclusion, limiting access to employment opportunities and essential services, including education and healthcare.

Women with disabilities also face significant barriers to accessing basic needs and services, such as healthcare and education, in Yemen. These women are often excluded from social and economic activities, making achieving independence and access to fundamental rights much harder.  

Compared to women who do not face displacement, marginalization, or disability, these groups require different and specific approaches to achieve equity.    

Equality, which assumes that everyone requires the same thing to succeed, may not be sufficient to address the unique challenges faced by these groups. Instead, a more equitable approach is needed, recognizing the structural and systemic constraints these women face and seeking to remove them. This can be done by providing tailored support and targeted interventions that are responsive to the unique needs of these groups.   

By embracing equity and recognizing the differences between women whose lives and identities exist at the intersection of many forms of inequality, a more inclusive and just society can be created in Yemen. Only then can we hope to achieve true equality and ensure that all women in Yemen have access to the basic necessities and opportunities needed to thrive.