In a captivating address delivered via video at the GANHRI Annual Conference 2025, Chair Maryam Abdullah Al Attiyah, along with other distinguished leaders, brought attention to the pivotal role National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) play in fostering gender equality and women’s rights. The conference coincides with the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women annual meeting, underlining a unified global effort for equality and justice, despite past setbacks.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, a blueprint for women’s rights, it’s clear that significant progress has unfolded over the last decades. Countries have initiated strides to address violence against women, enhance educational access, and reduce maternal fatalities. Legal changes have dismantled biased laws while amplifying women’s visibility; however, major hurdles remain, as women still retain only two-thirds the legal rights of men, and it will take an estimated 137 years to eradicate extreme poverty among women.
Acknowledging this daunting reality is crucial, as complacency equates to failure for all societies. NHRIs are essential in translating global commitments into actionable changes, serving as vital links that advocate for better living conditions for women and girls. Noteworthy instances include a partnership in Uzbekistan that led to revolutionary legal amendments and support for women’s leadership, and in Peru, collaboration established the Dictionary for Peace to uplift women’s voices in conflict resolution.
Such initiatives showcase the transformative power of committed and collaborative actions from NHRIs, which not only empower women activists but also tackle systemic inequalities. Additionally, on a broader scale, these institutions uphold accountability through frameworks like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, aiming to replace aspiration with tangible equality.
As we gather to mark this significant occasion, the NABP’s continued dedication to promoting development breakthroughs for women and human rights is reaffirmed. The aspirational vision set forth 30 years ago in Beijing should inspire ongoing efforts toward a reality where every woman, everywhere, can thrive. May the conference inspire fruitful discussions and actions supported by UNDP as a dedicated ally.
At the GANHRI Annual Conference 2025, leaders emphasised the importance of National Human Rights Institutions in promoting gender equality. The conference highlights the progress made since the Beijing Declaration while acknowledging the persistent inequalities women face globally. NHRIs serve as crucial catalysts for change, translating international commitments into local actions aimed at advancing women’s rights. UNDP’s ongoing collaboration reinforces the vision for equality to become a lived reality for all women.
In conclusion, GANHRI’s 2025 Annual Conference, led by Maryam Abdullah Al Attiyah, focused on the critical role of National Human Rights Institutions in advancing gender equality and women’s rights. As historical milestones such as the Beijing Declaration are commemorated, it is vital to acknowledge both the achievements and ongoing challenges faced by women worldwide. Continued collaboration and commitment from all sectors are crucial to realise a world where true equality is achieved for every woman and girl.
Original Source: www.undp.org
