A/HRC/27/73 stereotypes of men and boys in order to create stronger allies for women and for women and girls’ equality. 11. In the discussion that followed, speakers noted that progress ha d been made towards ensuring gender equality but many challenges remained on the pa th to true equality. Challenging gender stereotypes was the first step to combating discrimination against women. Several speakers expressed concern that gender stereotyping presented obstacles to achieving gender equality, ensuring women’s rights, including their sexual and reproductive rights and the right to be free from violence. Some noted that gender stereotypes relegated women to a secondary position to men not only at home but also at work, where women performing the same tasks as men were often paid significantly less than men. 12. It was agreed that stereotypes were subtle and difficult to detect, often acting on the subconscious. The phenomenon had been amplified by new information and communication technologies, which could however also contribute to combating prejudice. Several speakers noted that education was one of the effective ways of combating harmful stereotypes. 13. Several States emphasized that because of their detrimental impact on society, gender stereotypes needed to be addressed at different levels and by different actors. In that regard, laws against discrimination and violence were crucial. Gender mainstreaming was key and measures must be taken to organize and evaluate policy processes to ensure that gender perspectives were included in a ll stages. In addition, public policies must ensure the neutrality of public institutions and promote a gender balance in areas such as education, where important disparities remained , as well as in economic and political life. It was acknowledged that gov ernments alone and the implementation of public policies did not sufficiently address issues of gender inequality. Family and community leaders also had an important role to play in eliminating prejudices in the community. The most commonly called upon too l for combating gender stereotypes was the use of the mass media to broadcast awarenessraising campaigns. At the same time, there was an appeal for the media to be held accountable for messaging that contributed to the unequal gender narrative. Challenging gender stereotypes was the first step to combating discrimination against women and improving women’s well-being. 14. It was agreed that the post-2015 framework must be based on human rights and all goals must be gender-mainstreamed. 15. Responding to some of the questions, panellists reiterated that stereotypes diminished the potential of all individuals, infantili zed women, made them vulnerable to violence, and affected their self-esteem. It was noted that the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and other treaties, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provided guidance to States on eliminating gender stereotypes. Recommendations coming from the human rights treaty bodies in the area of stereotypes required concerted action by several actors, including, inter alia, relevant government ministries, parliament, the educational systems, and civil society organizations. The role of special procedures was also emphasized. 16. Panellists recommended that States take into consideration the diverse concerns and needs of all women, including women with disabilities, and for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing gender stereotyping in all sectors of society, including in education, employment, marriage and family life. The role of both regional and international mechanisms to ensure accountability was further highlighted. 5