In a powerful gathering at the UN Headquarters, youths from around the globe made a resounding statement: real progress in achieving equal rights hinges on their involvement. Ema Meçaj from Albania urged authorities to “support us and include us” in vital decisions to combat gender-based violence and poverty, reinforcing the need for inclusive approaches addressing the most vulnerable.
With the first week of the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women concluding, thousands participated in discussions that adopted a vital declaration. They assessed the rights of women and girls while marking the milestones and obstacles to achieving gender equality per the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action.
Youth representatives from Canada, Nepal, Nigeria, and Panama shared insights during the dialogues, tackling critical issues such as violence against women and advocating for inclusivity for Indigenous Peoples and women with disabilities. Highlighting the essence of the Beijing Platform, they regarded it as both a roadmap for equal rights and a rallying point for protest against injustices.
Eva Chiom Chukwenele, a Nigerian advocate, stressed that the rights to education and healthcare should encompass all, especially women with disabilities who face significant exclusion. She passionately highlighted the lack of data on this vulnerable group, stating, “If there is no data, how can you be counted?” and called for actionable steps and visibility for this often-overlooked population.
Ahdithya Viseweswaran from Canada emphasised the crucial role of men and boys in combating gender inequality. Recognising the challenges posed by pervasive patriarchal systems, he advocated for shifting the spotlight from women to initiate discussions about masculinity and equality. His sentiments echo the need for a collective redefinition of gender roles rooted in empathy and justice.
Laura Dihuignidili Huertas, representing Indigenous youth from Panama, reiterated the long journey ahead, calling for unity in efforts to fulfil commitments made 30 years ago in Beijing. “Without us, there is no future,” she proclaimed, urging for empowerment and strong commitments to change the grim realities faced by many.
Sima Bahous, UN Women’s chief, expressed admiration for the young leaders driving the movement, asserting that they are essential to realising a just future. She affirmed, “We cannot build a just future without those who will inherit it,” rallying support for youth-led initiatives.
Additionally, discussions included the dire situation of Afghan women and girls, necessitating international backing due to oppressive laws enacted post-Taliban takeover in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for a renewed focus on women’s rights worldwide.
The UN Women’s Commission has seen powerful youth advocacy, with participants stressing the need for their inclusion in gender equality dialogues. Highlighting ongoing issues like violence against women, they presented solutions, emphasised the importance of representation for disabled women, and called for solidarity in fulfilling the Beijing commitments. UN leaders commended these young activists for shaping a just future and advocating for women’s rights globally, particularly in contexts like Afghanistan, facing oppression.
In summary, the youth leaders at the UN Women’s Commission have powerfully underscored the importance of inclusive action for achieving gender equality. Their messages highlight a collective ambition to address systemic issues preventing equity while engaging men and boys as essential allies in this journey. The affirmation that “without us, there is no future” serves as a rallying cry for continued advocacy and meaningful progress toward more inclusive societies.
Original Source: news.un.org
