Our Voice at the United Nations – Nairobi, UNCSC
The United Nations Civil Society Conference (UNCSC) 2024, held in Nairobi from May 9 – 10 2024, is a significant annual event organised by the UN Department of Global Communications (DGC) in collaboration with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). The conference provides a platform for diverse civil society members, including Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), activists, academics, and representatives from different sectors, to engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperation on pressing global issues. Including in this varied and broad delegation, representatives from Soroptimist International (SI) were able to attend the conference and report back on the key events, issues, and discussions taking centre stage in Nairobi.
On behalf of SI, representatives Mary Muia and Shaleen Wanjiru attended key sessions on youth participation around issues such as climate and social justice; Habiba Alambo, who attended on behalf of SI and Women for Water Partnerships (WfWP), elaborated on the primary goals of the conference and submitted a comprehensive report of the activities and events taking place; additionally, Ruhiyih Temko, a Young Soroptimist, reported on the importance of empowerment, mentorship, networking, and collective action in driving positive change.
This issue of Our Voice at the United Nations looks at each of our representatives contributions to the conference and their submitted reviews, as well as linking to the more comprehensive submissions from our Nairobi Team.
The Future We Want – Shaleen Wanjiru and Mary Muia, SI UN Representatives
SI representatives, Shaleen Wanjiru and Mary Muia, played a significant role at the UNCSC in Nairobi. The conference, which focused on youth participation in shaping the “Future We Want,” brought together young activists from around the globe to discuss pressing issues such as climate change and social justice. Shaleen and Mary reported on the key outcomes, including calls for increased youth engagement in decision-making processes and greater investment in youth development programs. They also highlighted the formation of the “Pact for the Future,” aimed at amplifying youth voices, supporting youth-led initiatives, and prioritizing education and empowerment for the upcoming Summit of the Future in New York.
Shaleen and Mary also attended the impactful “Youth and Intergenerational Engagement: Collective Action for Youth, Adolescents, and Older Generations” coalition event, which emphasised the importance of collaboration across age groups. Their insights underscored the value of intergenerational dialogue in developing innovative solutions to global issues and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future. By reporting on these significant developments, Shaleen and Mary helped set a powerful precedent for ensuring that the voices of future generations are heard. As we move towards the September Summit of the Future, their contributions highlight the essential need for collective action to build a more just and sustainable world for all.
Read Shaleen and Mary’s Blog here.
Global Challenges, Unified Solutions – Ruhiyih Temko, Young Soroptimist and Mary Muia, SI UN Representative
Also attending the UNCSC 2024, Ruhiyih Temko, a Young Soroptimist, with support from Mary Muia, shared insights on several important topics and discussions which took centre stage. Ruhiyih’s key takeaways from the conference included the importance of empowerment, mentorship, networking, and collective action in driving positive change. Ruhiyih highlighted the vital role of mentors in guiding young people and the power of networking in building connections and mutual support. Mary focused on the conference’s diverse representation, which fostered solidarity and meaningful dialogue across cultures and age groups. Both representatives emphasised the active participation of women and youth in shaping policies, demonstrating that their voices are crucial in creating a sustainable and equitable future.
The UNCSC also addressed key global challenges through thematic discussions. Topics included sustainable development and innovative financing, international peace and security, the role of science and technology in addressing global issues, and the importance of digital cooperation. The conference placed significant emphasis on empowering youth and future generations, discussing the Declaration on Future Generations and the need for youth engagement in policymaking. Additionally, the event called for transforming global governance to be more inclusive and responsive to contemporary challenges. The insights and experiences shared by Ruhiyih and Mary underscored the collective effort required to bring about lasting change.
Read Ruhiyih and Mary’s blog here.
A Platform for Global Dialogue – Habiba Alambo, SI and WfWP UN Representative
Attending the conference on behalf of SI and WfWP, Habiba Alambo highlighted both organisation’s dedication to global advocacy for women and girls. Throughout the event, she actively participated in various sessions, engaging in critical discussions on gender equality, women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and human rights. Habiba’s contributions were invaluable, bringing a unique perspective to the dialogue and ensuring that our voice was heard in these essential conversations.
Her comprehensive report provides an in-depth look at the events she attended, detailing the key issues addressed and the potential solutions proposed. By highlighting these critical discussions, Habiba emphasized the ongoing challenges and opportunities in advancing gender equality. Through her active involvement, Soroptimist International’s commitment to fostering positive change and supporting the rights and empowerment of women and girls globally was clearly demonstrated.
Read a summary of Habiba’s report here
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UNCSC 2024 in Nairobi proved to be a pivotal platform for global dialogue and action. SI’s representatives played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of women and girls, emphasising youth engagement, and contributing to discussions on pressing global issues. Their participation underscored our commitment to fostering positive change and advancing gender equality worldwide. As we look towards the Summit of the Future and beyond, the insights and experiences shared by our delegates highlight the importance of collective action, intergenerational collaboration, and inclusive policymaking in building a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Through continued engagement in such global forums, SI remains at the forefront of efforts to empower women and girls and shape a better world.