In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted 11 October as the International Day of the Girl Child, to recognize girls' rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world.

UNFPA takes action to protect the health and rights of adolescent girls through comprehensive sexuality education; sexual and reproductive health counselling, information and services; and through youth participation to protect the human rights of adolescent girls. UNFPA also works with boys and men to advance gender equality, to encourage the abandonment of harmful stereotypes, the embrace respectful, healthy relationships, and support for human rights of all people, everywhere.