In a powerful appeal to human rights defenders, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted a dangerous backlash against women’s rights at a recent Commission on the Status of Women meeting. He urged attendees to unite against escalating misogyny and inequality, declaring that such setbacks are “unacceptable, immoral, and self-defeating.” The conference not only marked significant anniversaries in women’s rights but also revealed grave concerns regarding dwindling civic space and rampant gender-based violence.
Guterres acknowledged achievements in maternal health and education, but cautioned that these gains are under threat. He underscored the vital role women’s organisations play and the alarming dangers they face: harassment, threats, and violence, often resulting in the erosion of rights and accountability. Linda Sestock of the Canadian Federation of University Women inquired how to better integrate civil society into CSW negotiations, prompting Guterres to emphasise that power must be claimed, not given.
Pointing to persistent structural inequalities, Guterres remarked on the dominance of males in society, even within the UN. While the organisation has achieved gender parity in senior management, challenges remain, particularly in conflict zones. The speakers reported that industries like technology and engineering continue to exhibit gender bias, perpetuating inequalities.
A representative from Restless Development urged dedicated funding for young feminists, emphasising that true inclusion necessitates co-creation and decision-making power for youth. Guterres echoed this sentiment, recognising the inadequacy of the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund, which raised just $100 million since 2023 for critical support.
As discussions progressed, questions surfaced about the prospect of electing a female UN Secretary-General. Guterres acknowledged the importance of gender parity and expressed hope that future leaders would be discerning and committed to equality. He reiterated the UN’s goal of achieving full gender parity by 2028.
In a landmark moment, Member States adopted a Political Declaration reaffirming their dedication to advancing the rights of women and girls. This declaration, highlighted by Under Secretary-General Sima Bahous, calls for intensified efforts towards gender equality by 2025, a crucial time for implementing the Beijing Declaration. The declaration stresses the importance of women’s voices in conflict resolution and the elimination of all forms of violence against women. Ms. Bahous concluded that no nation has yet achieved full gender equality, marking 2025 as a pivotal moment for change.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urgently called for action against the rising backlash against women’s rights during the Commission on the Status of Women. While acknowledging progress, he highlighted the threats faced by women’s rights defenders and the need for increased funding. A new Political Declaration was adopted, reaffirming commitment to gender equality and emphasising the significance of 2025 in implementing advancements in women’s rights.
The UN’s recent conference underscored the urgent need to combat the backlash against women’s rights, led by Secretary-General António Guterres. Despite notable achievements in women’s health and education, the fight against gender-based violence, systemic inequalities, and funding shortages remains crucial. The adoption of a Political Declaration reaffirms nations’ commitment to gender equality, setting a key target for 2025. The road ahead requires sustained collaboration and an unyielding vision for a world where women’s rights are fully realised.
Original Source: news.un.org
