CSW69:A Global Call for Action on Women’s Rights

The 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), taking place from March 10 to 21, 2025, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, brings the global community together to address critical issues surrounding gender equality. This year’s conference highlights a major milestone, the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a framework that has significantly shaped women’s rights and empowerment worldwide.

UN Secretary General António Guterres opened the conference with a powerful speech, acknowledging the progress made in areas such as education, maternal health, and legal protections for women. However, he also warned that despite these advancements, women’s rights are under increasing threat, with the “poison of patriarchy” making a strong comeback globally. He pointed to the rise of misogyny, particularly online, and the continued resistance to gender equality, both of which are undermining hard-won gains for women and girls.

“The masters of misogyny are gaining strength, and women’s rights are under siege,” Guterres said, calling for swift and decisive action. He emphasized the need for increased funding for women’s organizations, stronger accountability for gender-based violence, and greater investments in education and economic empowerment. He also underscored the importance of including women in leadership roles across various sectors, from politics to peacebuilding.

“In these perilous times for women’s rights, we must rally around the Beijing Declaration, recommit to the Platform for Action and stand firm in making the promise of rights, equality and empowerment a reality for every woman and girl around the world,” the UN chief said.

Similarly, UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous expressed concern about the growing resistance to gender equality, but reassured the delegates that the fight for women’s rights would not be deterred. “We, the champions of gender equality, have faced pushback before. We have not backed down. And we will not back down,” Bahous declared, urging world leaders to take bold action to close gender gaps and create a more equitable world for women and girls.

Rwanda and Beijing 30

At this conference, some individuals from Civil Society Organizations advocating for Women’s Rights in Rwanda are also participating.

Rwanda, a recognized leader in gender equality, has used this platform to showcase its significant strides in advancing women’s rights, while also acknowledging the challenges that still remain. As a country that has prioritized gender equality through robust policies and investments, Rwanda has emerged as a model for other nations.

The country’s Vision Umurenge Program (VUP), which targets poverty alleviation, has specifically supported women, with women being the primary beneficiaries of financial assistance. The Women’s Guarantee Fund has enhanced access to credit for female entrepreneurs, allowing women to grow their businesses and gain greater financial independence.

Furthermore, women play an essential role in Rwanda’s economy, with 37.6% of women owning businesses and 41.3% occupying management positions in commercial enterprises.

Rwanda is also making strides in digital financial services, with plans to ensure full mobile phone ownership for female-headed households by 2026. This move is expected to further bridge the digital divide, which remains a significant barrier to women’s economic participation in many parts of the world.

Despite these successes, Rwanda faces ongoing challenges, including the persistent gender wage gap, unpaid household labor, and gender-based violence.

These issues continue to limit the full economic potential of women, and the country is committed to addressing them through comprehensive policies and programs.

At CSW69, Rwanda reiterated its dedication to the full implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and called for stronger international partnerships to support the economic empowerment of women and girls.

Rwanda also highlighted its impressive progress in political representation. Women in Rwanda hold more than 60% of the seats in the national parliament, making it the highest percentage of female parliamentary representation globally. This achievement is a testament to the country’s commitment to gender equality in governance and decision-making.

UN Commission on the Status of Women 69

At CSW69, leaders from around the world are being urged to prioritize the needs of women and girls, close the gender gap in education and employment, and work together to eliminate barriers to gender equality.

CSW69 is serving as a crucial platform for countries to share their experiences, advocate for global commitments, and push for a more inclusive and equitable world.

The road ahead may be long, but the conference provides an opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to achieving gender equality in our lifetime. With global leaders, taking a stand for women’s rights, the hope is that significant progress will continue to be made toward a world where every woman and girl can live free from violence, discrimination, and inequality.

As the world accelerates efforts to achieve gender equality, CSW69 serves as a reminder of the importance of global solidarity and action as nations, and this conference is not just an opportunity to reflect on past achievements but to lay the groundwork for future progress, ensuring that the promise of gender equality is realized for all women and girls everywhere.

Peace Hillary