Gender equality still 300 years away: UN chief tells world leaders

The United Nations Secretary General issued a dire warning to world leaders on Monday: globally, women's rights are at risk of backsliding.

"Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current tracks, UN Women puts it 300 years away," said Antonio Guterres in a speech to the General Assembly ahead of the UN session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Guterres warned of violence against women, mortality in childbirth and workforce inequality as top threats to gender equality globally.

He called on nations to promote greater inclusivity for women in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math -- and noted a wide gender gap in the growing field of artificial intelligence.

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