My First Experience at CSW69: A Journey of Advocacy, Reflection, and Action
Attending the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) at the United Nations was a truly transformative experience. As a first-time participant, I was immersed in a global dialogue that not only celebrated progress but also critically examined the persistent gaps in gender equality and women's rights. The energy, passion, and commitment of advocates, policymakers, and civil society leaders were palpable, reinforcing the urgent need to accelerate action towards gender justice.
A Platform for Global Advocacy
CSW69 provided a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and changemakers from around the world. The plenary sessions, panel discussions, and side events highlighted key issues such as economic empowerment, gender-based violence, climate justice, and digital inclusion. Witnessing the collective effort to shape policies and initiatives reaffirmed the importance of global solidarity in advancing women's rights.
Reflecting on Beijing +30: Progress and Challenges
This year’s CSW session held special significance as it marked 30 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995. The Beijing +30 review served as a critical moment to assess achievements and identify areas where progress has stalled.
Over the past three decades, the Beijing Platform for Action has been a guiding framework for gender equality. It has led to significant strides in education, legal rights, and political participation for women. However, challenges remain—gender-based violence persists at alarming rates, the gender pay gap continues to disadvantage women, and the impact of crises such as climate change and conflicts disproportionately affect women and girls.
As I return from CSW69, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose. The voices of women from diverse backgrounds, sharing their struggles and successes, serve as a powerful reminder that change is possible when we stand together. The journey continues, and the fight for gender equality must remain a priority—not just for women, but for society as a whole.
Let me repeat the advice from UN Secretary General António Guterres, “ Power is never given, it needs to be taken. When policies are formulated, women organisations should mobilise themselves to create that political power and use the tools of technology as much as possible. They will hear you if you shout loud enough”. Let us mobilise ourselves and shout loud enough to turn words into action and ensuring that the promises of Beijing +30 become a lived reality for all women and girls.
