Blog by Joseph Mason, SI Advocacy and Communications Coordinator.
The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) opened with a powerful call for action, reflecting on the progress and setbacks since the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BDPA). As the world marks the 30 year anniversary of this historic commitment to gender equality, the session served as both a celebration of achievements and a sobering reminder of the work that remains.
With global crises, economic inequalities, and political challenges threatening hard-won gains, speakers urged governments, civil society, and international organisations to translate commitments into measurable outcomes. From youth activists and Indigenous leaders to UN officials and policymakers, the opening ceremony spotlighted diverse voices demanding urgent investment, policy reform, and structural change to secure women’s full and equal participation in society.
A Celebration of Women’s Strength and Potential
The session commenced with a Soprano Flutist from the Saudi Arabian National Orchestra, setting a reflective and empowering tone. A video presentation followed, showcasing women’s diversity, strength, and resilience across various fields, reinforcing the boundless potential that remains untapped due to systemic barriers.
In the formal opening, the Mr. Abdulaziz M. Alwasil, Chair of CSW69 and Saudi ambassador to the UN, outlined this year’s themes, including violence against women and girls (VAWG), climate change, youth leadership, and the revitalisation of CSW. Parallel and side events, hosted by governments, partner organisations, and civil society actors, were also highlighted as crucial spaces for dialogue and action.
Reflecting on the past 30 years, the Mr. Alwasil described the Beijing Declaration as a “watershed moment”, but posed a critical question:
Has the world truly delivered on its commitments to gender equality?
While notable progress was acknowledged—more women in leadership, expanded access to education, and increased legal protections—it was widely agreed that change has been too slow and remains fragile in the face of intersecting crises. The call was clear: the world must move beyond making promises and take decisive action to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure women’s equal rights.
Young Women and Indigenous Leaders Take the Floor
The Chair of CSW69 and the President of ECOSOC transferred their speaking time to women whose voices are often marginalised, reinforcing the principle that policy must be shaped by those who experience its consequences firsthand.
Ms. Jenna Suleman Arifi, an electrical engineering student and renewable energy innovator, shared her personal journey, highlighting the importance of an enabling environment for women and girls.
“Let’s continue to nurture environments that build our strength and enhance the presence of women and girls,” she urged. “Every step builds a bridge for the next generation.”
Ms. Loretta Jeff Combs delivered a statement on behalf of Indigenous women, reflecting on the 30-year impact of the BDPA on Indigenous communities. While recognising progress in securing investments in human rights, she stressed that Indigenous women and girls remain among the most vulnerable groups.
“We need Indigenous women at all levels of decision-making,” she declared. “Our youth must see that our voices are being heard.”
Funding Cuts: A Direct Blow to Gender Equality
The CEO of the African Women’s Development Fund delivered a stark warning about the devastating impact of restricted funding on gender equality initiatives. She revealed that government cuts of USD$730 million per year amount to a calculated blow to women’s rights, with funding shortfalls translating directly into harm for women and girls worldwide.
“Gender equality requires more than words; it demands sustained, significant investment,” she said. “This is not a matter of charity—it is a matter of justice and political will.”
Antonio Guterres: ‘The Poison of Patriarchy is Back’
UN Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres delivered an impassioned speech, warning that gender equality is under siege.
“The poison of patriarchy is back—and back with a vengeance,” he declared. “There is an antidote, and that antidote is action.”
While acknowledging progress in reducing maternal mortality and expanding legal protections, he lamented the persistence of age-old horrors, including violence, economic inequality, and discrimination.
Mr. Guterres also condemned the role of artificial intelligence in amplifying gendered abuse, revealing that 95 per cent of all online deepfake images are non-consensual pornography targeting women.
To combat these threats, he outlined three urgent priorities:
- Investing in gender equality, including education and eliminating violence and harassment.
- Supporting women’s organisations, which play a vital role in accountability and advocacy.
- Ensuring gender-inclusive technology, including commitments through a Global Compact on Gender Equality in AI.
‘Women’s Place is Everywhere’
Taking the stand after the UN Secretary General, the President of ECOSOC, Mr. Bob Rae, echoed these concerns, warning of growing resistance to gender equality. He reaffirmed that the Beijing Declaration must remain the foundation of global gender policies but stressed that reflection alone is not enough.
“Gender equality is not just a goal,” he stated. “It is the foundation of a just and sustainable world. We cannot achieve the 2030 Agenda until we achieve full equality between women and men.”
He dismissed long-standing arguments against women’s rights, declaring:
“The idea that women must ‘know their place’ has never changed. But the truth is, women’s place is everywhere—in leadership, in policy, in innovation, and in society.”
Reaffirming the Beijing Platform for Action
The President of the General Assembly, Mr. Philémon Yang, reinforced the importance of the Beijing Declaration and the need for acceleration towards the 2030 agenda. He cited progress such as:
- Women’s representation in parliaments increasing from 11 per cent to 20 per cent over 30 years
- More girls in school worldwide
- Stronger legal frameworks to combat violence and discrimination
However, he cautioned that these gains remain fragile and urged unwavering commitment to eliminating gender-based violence, systemic inequality, and economic disparities.
“We must rally around the Beijing Declaration,” he stated. “It is not just about women and girls—it is about the future of humanity.”
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Gender Equality
As the CSW69 Opening Ceremony drew to a close, speakers made it clear: the world stands at a defining moment for gender equality.
With 2025 marking key anniversaries—30 years since the Beijing Declaration, 25 years since UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, and 50 years since the founding of UN Women—the coming year must serve as a catalyst for urgent, transformative action.
“We have faced pushback before, and we did not back down,” declared UN Women’s Executive Director, Sima Bahous. “We will not back down now.”
The call was clear: without sustained political will, financial investment, and collective action, the promise of equality, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls will remain out of reach for generations to come.