Latest news with #BeijingDeclarationandPlatformforAction
Globe and Mail
31-03-2025
- Politics
- Globe and Mail
Sanicle: The Workplace Flo for Government & Corporate Leaders, Driving AI, Policy & Gender Equity at Beyond Beijing 30, Nova Award & UN CSW69
The Beyond Beijing 30 Summit, presented by Sanicle and co-hosted by UNA-Nigeria, UNESCO Center of Peace, IBTK Foundation, Femtech Weekend, The Real Studios, Columbia University's SIPA Pan-African Network (SPAN), AfricaTech NYC, and Luz Maria Foundation, convened a distinguished group of global leaders, policymakers, and changemakers at Columbia University SIPA to mark the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. [ L: Dr Omopeju Afanu, Hawa Taylor Kamara Diallo, Mary Apollo, Rosemond Yeboah, Luz Maria Utrera, Ishmael Byne Taylor-Kamara, Jr. and Chaste Inegbedion (R) ] The summit focused on advancing gender equity, health innovation, and economic empowerment for women, culminating in the NOVA Awards, which recognize trailblazers whose contributions continue to shape the future of gender equality. The event brought together esteemed guests, including Hon. Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender & Children's Affairs of Sierra Leone, and Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs of Nigeria, alongside keynote speeches from distinguished leaders such as Lady Tee Thompson. Attendees, recipients, and delegates embraced a touch of elegance, dressed in green and gold—colors symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and strength. [Chaste Inegbedion, Chief Period Officer Presenting the Nova Award to Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim (Nigeria's Minister of Women Affairs) with the Secretary General of UNA-Nigeria, Dr Omopeju Afanu] Paul Olugbenga, Founder of The Real Studios, who led the branding of the event, reflected on the symbolism: "The NOVA Prize aesthetics symbolize renewal, prosperity, and strength—just like the honorees we celebrate." [ Chaste Inegbedion, Chief Period Officer Presenting the Nova Award to Hon. Dr. Isata Mahoi Minister of Gender & Children's Affairs of Sierra Leone ] The event was hosted by Assoc. Prof. Cynthia Obiorah and Ekanem Adeleke, who guided a powerful dialogue on policy implementation, innovation in women's health, and cross-sector collaboration. In his welcome address, Guy Djoken, Executive Director of UNESCO Center for Peace, emphasized the urgency of activism and policy reform to advance women's empowerment. [ Guy Djoken, Executive Director of UNESCO Center for Peace with Nova Recipient Dr. Padmini Murthy, Global Health Director at New York Medical College School of Health Sciences and Tolulope Lewis-Tamoka, Chief of Governmental Relations & Africa, UN Global Compact ] "True progress requires collective action and shared responsibility," Djoken stated, highlighting barriers to education, technology access, and financial empowerment, particularly in Africa. Hon. Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi of Sierra Leone, in her keynote, outlined her country's strategic efforts to empower women and girls. These initiatives include allocating 22% of the national budget to education, introducing STEM programs for girls with scholarships, and launching vocational training and microfinance schemes. 'Creating opportunities for girls to dream, learn, and lead is not just a policy priority—it is a moral imperative,' Mahoi said. [ L- Zhu Yihan of Femtech Weekend,Cecile Delcuvellerie of Yale Inclusion Economics, Chaste Inegbedion of Sanicle, Councilwoman Roxy Ndebumadu OF roxHealth, Rashmi Joshi of Asha AI (R) ] Honoring Changemakers and Advancing Women's Leadership The NOVA Awards, sponsored by and IBTK Foundation, honored leaders who are not only making an impact today but are committed to sustaining transformative change beyond 2025. "We celebrate these recipients not just for their past achievements but for their ongoing commitment to women's empowerment. They have demonstrated a dedication to turning projects into tangible products and services that uplift women. Collectively, they have pledged to continue their impactful work throughout 2025, supporting women in their respective fields and driving meaningful change," said Hawa Taylor Kamara Diallo, Retired UN Official and Founder of IBTK Foundation. Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister for Women Affairs of Nigeria, shared how receiving the NOVA Award at CSW69, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, represents both a celebration and a challenge: "This award is not just for me; it is for the countless women and girls across Nigeria who inspire us every day with their resilience and strength. While we acknowledge the progress made, we must also confront the stark realities: the heightened vulnerability of women and children during disasters, the struggles faced in urban slums. This recognition strengthens our resolve to address these challenges head-on. Our commitment to the Global Cities for CEDAW Coalition is unwavering, and we will work tirelessly to create inclusive urban governance and climate action strategies. This is a moment of celebration, yes, but also a moment of rededication to the work ahead, for Nigeria's women and for a more just society." 2025: A Defining Year for Gender Equality As the world looks ahead, 2025 represents a crucial turning point: Five years remain to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with SDG 5 on gender equality at its core. 25 years since UN Resolution 1325 underscored the need for women's inclusion in peacebuilding, recognizing that 600 million women and girls worldwide are not just victims but architects of peace. 30 years since the Beijing Declaration set forth a bold vision for gender equality—one that remains unfinished. While the Beijing+30 Action Agenda builds on six key pillars—bridging the digital divide, eradicating poverty, ending violence, advancing leadership, securing peace, and prioritizing women in climate justice—the summit introduced a seventh: engaging working women and male allies, recognizing their role in fostering truly inclusive workplaces and communities. Key Insights and Outcomes from the Summit The summit tackled some of the most pressing issues at the intersection of gender, innovation, and policy through three strategic initiatives: Femtech Hackathon: Organized by Femtech Weekend, this initiative gathered tech innovators working on digital solutions to bridge gender gaps in health and workplace equity. Panel Discussions: Experts from Sanicle, UNA-Nigeria, IBTK Foundation, and Vivacity PR led critical conversations on menstrual and menopause equity, financial inclusion, and healthcare innovation. NOVA Award Ceremony: Recognizing Nobel Working Women and HeForShe Heroes, men who champion gender equity and economic inclusion. The UNA-Nigeria panel moderated by her secretary General Dr Omopeju Afanu focused on women's economic empowerment. Key issues discussed included gender inequality, lack of access to finance, unequal pay, and the need for tailored financial products and literacy programs. Panelists emphasized the importance of equity over equality, integrating social protection with financial inclusion, and providing holistic support. Key takeaways included that women face barriers to financial inclusion and business scaling, and structural challenges hinder business efficiency. Luz Maria Utrera said, "Nothing is impossible. To succeed as a woman against all odds, you need to believe in yourself and in the power of your dreams." Funmi Olotu stated, "As women, we should be prepared to shatter any ceiling or barriers that exist through our passion, diligence, and integrity." The panel, moderated by Chaste Inegbedion, explored the impact of work-based absenteeism tied to menstrual and menopause issues. Panelists examined how AI and technology can break down systemic barriers that hinder women's economic participation. Key insights included the need for inclusive workplace policies and the role of AI in empowering women. Rashmi Joshi of Asha AI emphasized AI's role in lowering barriers to entry for innovators. Cecile Delcuvellerie of Yale Inclusion Economics highlighted the importance of addressing women's health issues and workplace challenges, and Councilwoman Roxy Ndebumadu stressed that policymakers should focus on incentivizing founders and partnering with startups to solve societal problems. The IBTK Foundation Panel moderated by her director, Cairo Eubank focused on forging strategic partnerships and collaborations to prepare the workforce for the future. Panelists emphasized fair play, mutual benefits, strategic youth investment, adaptability, continuous learning, and networking. The Vivacity Panel moderated by Achalu David, the lead consultant at ProjectPro, explored how AI and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) shape gender equity in the workplace. Ebaide Omiunu, founder of the Ebaidebheki Initiative focused on sustainability and climate action, highlighted the progress in women's leadership in Africa over the past 30 years. She noted that since 1995, Africa has seen the appointment of four female ministers and prime ministers and three female presidents—a significant step toward greater representation. 'Empowering Women's Health in the Workplace in the Digital Era' was the theme of the Femtech Hackathon, where and Femtech Weekend brought together innovators across continents to develop solutions bridging the gender health gap. Zhu Yihan, Founder of Femtech Weekend, underscored the need for inclusive digital health solutions, ensuring AI-powered innovations truly reflect women's healthcare experiences rather than reinforcing existing biases. Seneca Forch, Vice President of the SIPA Pan-African Network, reinforced the collective responsibility of global collaboration in advancing gender equality: "SPAN, as our organization is called, firmly believes in the power of collaboration and unity to achieve a common goal. Events like this remind us that vision is never achieved alone, neither is it realized overnight—but through struggles, triumphs, and small victories that culminate into a mosaic of human progress and resilience. While today may be marked with festivities, may it also be a reminder that there is still much to be done. As we consider the work of our respective countries and organizations represented today, let us not forget the humanitarian mandate to uplift one another—never ceasing to stand with those crying out in nations like Khartoum and the Bukavu. In these days and times, may we wield greater clarion calls to even greater action. In the old adage, we must always 'lift as we climb.'" Watch 'Sanicle's Workplace Flo: Equity Wins at Beijing 30, Nova & UN CSW69 | Stop Helping, Start Leading!' on Youtube: Transforming Workplace Health Equity The summit also marked the official launch of a B2B-B2G digital platform designed to help corporations and governments address menstrual and menopause-related workplace absenteeism. By integrating AI-powered insights with policy implementation, Sanicle is committed to ensuring that no woman loses her job due to a natural biological process. "We need to move beyond merely 'empowering women'—a term that often implies permission—to actually placing them in positions of power," said Chaste Inegbedion, Chief Period Officer at "At the United Nations Global Compact, we recognize that gender equality is not just a fundamental human right but a necessary foundation for a prosperous and sustainable world," said Tolulope Lewis-Tamoka, Chief of Governmental Relations & Africa, UN Global Compact. She stressed that technology, when paired with bold policies and strategic investment, can be a game-changer for women's economic empowerment. Other award recipients included Dr. Padmini Murthy, Global Health Director at New York Medical College School of Health Sciences; Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, Acting Director of Reforms Coordination and Service Improvement at the FCTA and Founder of Helpline Foundation for the Needy, Abuja; Mariama Sahid, Advocacy Officer for the Young Women in Democracy Forum; Folusho Dasylva, CEO of Royalty Events; Rhoda Robinson, Executive Director of HACEY; Rosemond Yeboah, Founder of the RAY Foundation; and Richard Iyasere, a community leader in the Greater New York metropolitan area and Superintendent with the MTA. Additional honorees included Mary Apollo, a South Sudanese youth ambassador and founder of The Four Directions; Audu Kadiri, community organizer and CEO of Youth Builders Initiative; Engr. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, former Special Assistant on Youth, ICT, and Corporate Relations, as well as Special Assistant on New Media to Nigerian Ministers; Dr. Prince Ero Ibhafidon, CEO of Waterlight Save Initiative; Isaac Bayoh, Youth Representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations; and Henry Ukazu, Legal Coordinator for the NYC Department of Correction. The list also featured Dr. Dior Fall, President and Founder of 1000 Shades of Women International; Saleah Blancaflor, TV reporter at ADWEEK; Luz Maria Utrera, UN Women Champion for Change, actress, and founder of Fundación Luz María; and many other distinguished personalities. Watch 'Humankind or Evil? Beijing+30 & NOVA Awards at UN CSW69 (Second Part)' on Youtube: Looking Ahead: UNGA80 and Beyond The Beyond Beijing 30 Summit and NOVA Award outcomes will be officially presented at the World Bank Spring Meetings in April 2025 and during UNGA80 in September 2025. The goal is to move from palliative solutions to sustainable, long-term investments that address women's health, economic participation, and leadership representation. Media Contact Company Name: Sanicle Contact Person: Daryll Hall Email: Send Email City: Tulsa State: Oklahoma Country: United States Website:
Observer
15-03-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Oman leads women's empowerment at UN CSW
Represented by the Ministry of Social Development, the Sultanate of Oman continues its active participation in the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), currently being held in New York. The session, which runs from March 10 to 21, 2025, focuses on 'Reviewing and Appraising the Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action' 30 years after its endorsement. Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, who leads Oman's delegation, reaffirmed the nation's strong commitment to the Beijing Declaration since its inception in 1995. She highlighted Oman's strategic efforts in implementing the 12 fundamental areas of the Declaration, with a core emphasis on achieving gender equality. Dr Laila noted that Oman has made significant strides in advancing women's education, with a 97.7 per cent female enrollment rate in 2024 and a 66 per cent participation rate in higher education in 2023. Additionally, female graduates in scientific fields have reached 50 per cent. Health indicators also reflect progress, with female life expectancy at birth remaining stable at approximately 79 years from 2019 to 2023. On the economic front, the minister underscored the growing role of Omani women in the workforce, with their participation rising to 34.9 per cent in 2023. As part of its engagement at CSW69, Oman, in collaboration with the Arab League, hosted a side event titled 'Arab Women: Innovation in the Era of the Industrial Revolution.' The event underscored Oman's dedication to global initiatives supporting women's empowerment and was held in alignment with the 'Muscat as the Capital of Arab Women for 2024' programme. Dr Laila met with Soraya Mouloudji, Algeria's Minister Oman's participation also featured a visual presentation showcasing the nation's legislative advancements, statistical insights on women's progress and success stories of Omani women excelling in innovation. On the sidelines of CSW69, Dr Laila met with Soraya Mouloudji, Algeria's Minister of National Solidarity, Family and Women's Issues, at the Sultanate of Oman's Permanent Mission to the UN. The discussion centred on enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas concerning family welfare, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Additionally, Dr Laila held talks with Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr al Nuaimi, Qatar's Minister of Social Development and Family, to explore joint initiatives in family, women's and children's affairs, along with key issues on the CSW agenda. These engagements reinforce Oman's proactive stance in shaping global discourse on gender equality and women's empowerment. — ONA
Zawya
11-03-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Celebration of International Women's Day 2025
Following the example of the international community, the ECOWAS Centre for Gender Development (CCDG) celebrated International Women's Day on Wednesday 05 March 2025 at the Azalaï Hotel in Dakar. This year's celebration, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, was an opportunity to discuss the situation of women in West Africa, particularly as regards respect for their rights to equality and justice. Alongside the various events planned in the Community, the CCDG organised a formal ceremony for the signing of a Partnership Agreement between ECOWAS and the Ministry for the Family and Solidarity of the Republic of Senegal concerning support from ECOWAS for the setting up of a production unit for reusable sanitary towels in Senegal. In view of the impact of the lack of sanitary towels on girls' performance, due to their repeated absence from school, and the growing need of women affected by obstetric fistula and the elderly, ECOWAS is planning to build three production units for sanitary towels and reusable nappies in the ECOWAS region, including one in Senegal. This project is part of a wider vision of economic empowerment and social protection for women and girls. As well as producing affordable sanitary towels, the unit will create jobs for women affected by obstetric fistula and provide work placements for young girls. It will also help to prevent school dropF-outs by providing teenage girls with appropriate hygiene products. On the environmental front, this initiative responds to a concern to reduce the ecological impact of disposable sanitary towels, which are responsible for a significant quantity of non-biodegradable waste, and to provide access to reusable and durable products, adapted to the needs of teenage girls and elderly people suffering from incontinence. The ceremony was attended by the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Senegal, the Commissioner for Development and Social Affairs of the ECOWAS Commission, the Director of the CCDG, the Director of Gender Equity and Equality representing the Senegalese Minister for the Family and Solidarity, the Regional Directors for West and Central Africa of UNFPA, UNFEMMES and representatives of GIZ. The event was also attended by sectoral ministries, civil society organisations, medical and pharmacy students, NGOs and women's networks working in the field of care for the elderly and obstetric fistula. In addition to the official ceremony, students gave testimonials on their experiences, and a call to action was launched to make the product available in schools, universities and training centres. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The National
08-03-2025
- Politics
- The National
Backlash against women's rights 'could hurt climate progress'
Thirty years ago, a landmark agreement was signed by 189 countries in China to further women's rights. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was to lay the foundations and provide a key global policy document on gender equality. Fast-forward to today, as countries around the globe roll out initiatives to mark International Women's Day, and new data released by the UN shows that women's and girl's rights face unprecedented growing threats worldwide. UN Women's latest report, Women's Rights in Review 30 Years After Beijing, released on Thursday, says that in 2024 nearly a quarter of goverments worldwide reported a backlash on women's rights, in countries including Spain, Canada, the Philippines, Brazil, Lebanon, Australia, Mongolia and Zimbabwe. 'It is not a new phenomenon,' UN Women's policy and programme director Sarah Hendriks said at a news conference. 'What is new is that it's gaining in greater speed and scale and velocity,' especially in very patriarchal and traditional nations where men play a dominant role." Despite important progress, the UN highlights that only 87 countries have ever been led by a woman, and a woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes by a partner or member of her own family. 'Globally, women's human rights are under attack." said Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General. "Instead of mainstreaming equal rights, we're seeing the mainstreaming of misogyny." From the boardroom to the newsroom, women are still disproportionately represented. For example, women account for just 10 per cent of Fortune 500 companies, and roughly 24 per cent of senior newsroom editorial roles are held by women. When it comes to the climate crisis, according to the UN, it is estimated that four out of five people displaced by storms and extreme weather events associated with climate change are women and girls. The UN estimates that by 2050, about 158 million more women and girls will be pushed into poverty. On the gender gap special of the Women in Climate podcast, a collaboration between The National and GIB Asset Management, Kathy Baughman McLeod, chief executive of Climate Resilience for All, said that women not only face gender bias when it comes to dealing with the effects of climate change, but are also placed at a disadvantage due to cultural gender stereotypes. For example, Ms Baughman McLeod said that during extreme heat, women she worked with in Pakistan could not escape to sleep in cooler areas saying "the women are not allowed to sleep outside. They have to sleep inside because they're not to be seen. But the men and the boys can sleep on the outside where the breeze is". To help bridge the gap between gender, climate, and building change, Climate Resilience for All launched an insurance programme last year to support women for lost income during heat in India. Experts say women should be better represented given the role they play in sectors such as food production and the resilience they show by taking on unpaid household chores and care work. In fact, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, in developing countries, women produce up to 80 per cent of food. "The issues remain around how do we unlock the challenges that preventing women from taking more action on climate," Jessica Robinson, partner at Solve Solutions, a UAE female-founded sustainability advisory firm, told The National. She says that the issue lies with education and access. Still, experts say a major barrier to progress this year has been the new policy stance on diversity and inclusion in the US. US President Donald Trump, in his address to Congress on Tuesday, declared an end to the "tyranny of so-called Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies" across the public and private sector, stating that the country will be "woke no longer." Ms Robinson called the move "woeful". However, Naomi Kerbel, host of Women in Climate and director of communications at SEC Newgate UK, said the wider push on diversity and inclusion, as well as sustainability, from the US opens an opportunity for women in leadership "who can really navigate change with resilience". The UN estimates that it could take another 300 years for full gender equality to be reached. However, Ms Kerbel highlights that we only have 25 years until 2050, the year seen as a major marker for international climate deadlines. "We've already surpassed one and a half degrees of [global] warming in 2024 so it's really imperative that we focus on that, and I think the women are the solution, because we can solve these issues in tandem," said Ms Kerbel.
MTV Lebanon
07-03-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
Grand Serail marks Women's Day with focus on gender-responsive institutions
To mark International Women's Day 2025, UN Women, in collaboration with the Institut des Finances Basil Fuleihan, hosted a high-level panel discussion at the Grand Serail, entitled 'Towards Inclusive, Accountable and Gender-Responsive Institutions'. The event examined ways for the public sector to advance gender equality, addressed the challenges in managing public institutions during crises, and showcased women-led initiatives that have influenced policy, strengthened governance processes, and promoted inclusive decision-making. 'I salute every Lebanese woman who fights for her rights, to every man who believes in and supports her cause, and to everyone who works to achieve justice and equality. Women's month is not a celebration, but a reminder of what we have not yet accomplished. Let us all pledge to move forward, not just for them, but for all of us', stated the President of the Council of Ministers, His Excellency Nawaf Salam, in his keynote address. As Lebanon navigates a critical period of reconstruction and reform, this event aims to catalyse discussions and actions that will institutionalize human rights principles and achieve gender equality and women's participation in the public sector to enhance transparency and accountability. 'Lebanon stands at a critical juncture where meaningful reforms can strengthen its institutions to be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of women and men citizens. UN Women advocates for and supports the achievement of gender-responsive public institutions and institutional mechanisms, in areas including gender-responsive budgeting, policy reform and service-delivery,' said Gielan Elmessiri, UN Women Representative in Lebanon, in her opening remarks. In his opening remarks, Imran Riza, UN Deputy Special Coordinator, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon, highlighted the strength, resilience, and leadership of women who have been at the forefront of addressing Lebanon's crises. He noted, "I've had the privilege of working with exceptional women whose expertise and dedication have driven impactful initiatives. However, an enabling environment for more women to thrive remains missing. We must prioritize greater political representation, economic participation, and equal legal rights through inclusive policies and addressing restrictive legal frameworks." This year's International Women's Day theme – For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment – calls for action to unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all. The 2025 celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), the most comprehensive global framework for advancing women's rights. In 2024, Lebanon, alongside 158 other Member States, contributed to a global review of progress made on implementing the BPfA's 12 critical areas of concern. The findings underscore the importance of gender data and financing for gender equality as fundamental pillars for driving meaningful progress. The Lebanese Government has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality through its adherence to international frameworks such as the BPfA and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The country's constitution, national laws and policies – including the National Strategy for Women's Empowerment and the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security – serve as key instruments for fostering gender-inclusive governance. he high-level panel discussion, moderated by Lamia Moubayed Bissat, President of the Institut des Finances Basil Fuleihan, within the Ministry of Finance, focused on women's leadership in advancing gender equality and women's empowerment in the public sector. Moubayed Bissat said 'Institutions play a crucial role in promoting gender equality by designing and implementing policies that remove barriers to women's advancement in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and more. To achieve this, institutions must ensure legislation that protects women's rights and enhances their representation in leadership positions, contributing to sustainable development and justice for all". Distinguished panelists included Lena Dargham, Director General of the Lebanese Standards Institution (LIBNOR); Najat Abou Chacra, Investigative Judge at the Military Court in Beirut; Nimat Kanaan, the first woman Director General of the Ministry of Social Affairs; and Wahida Ghalayini, Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) Manager at the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). Discussions explored the challenges of managing public institutions in times of crisis, as well as women-led initiatives that influence policy, strengthen governance and promote more inclusive decision-making at all levels. Strong, coordinated public institutions are essential for integrating gender equality into governance, budgeting and performance monitoring. With recent political momentum offering a unique opportunity to implement long-overdue reforms for gender equality in Lebanon, this event highlighted how aligning international commitments with national priorities will enhance post-conflict reconstruction, sustainable development and lasting peace.
