On 12-14 December, the International Conference of NGOs took place at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, under the theme, ‘The challenge of the digital revolution for NGOs’. This conference was attended by Soroptimist International UN representatives to Paris, Marie-Christine Gries and Rina Dupriet; together with Soroptimist International Director of Advocacy, Pat Black; Soroptimist International President Elect, Mariet Verhoef Cohen; Soroptimist International Advocacy Manager, Caroline Mulligan; and Soroptimist International Communications Manager, Sarah Wilkin. This was an important meeting, as the elections for the Chairperson of the International Conference, as well as the Liaison Committee members took place.
Soroptimist International President, Yvonne Simpson says: “On behalf of the Soroptimist International Board, officers and staff, I am thrilled to officially announce that our SI UN Representative, Marie-Christine Gries, has been elected to the NGO Liaison Committee for UNESCO in Paris. Our second UN representative Rina Dupriet will deputize for Marie-Christine when necessary.
It is a great honour, privilege and responsibility to be a member of this committee and SI is delighted to be able to put forward worthy and respected candidates. We thank Marie-Christine and Rina for the incredible work they do to ensure the voice of women is heard within UNESCO.
Our SI UN Representatives in New York, Geneva, Nairobi, Rome, Vienna and Paris ensure we are A Global Voice for Women in the world of the United Nations and the member states. Soroptimists in 133 countries and territories provide information on grassroots projects, and the Soroptimist International advocacy leaders and committee, including the UN Representatives, utilise these stories in their submissions to bring gender equality to the decision table. Our SI theme is ‘Educate to Lead’ which is also supported by the work done by our SI UN Reps.
On behalf of all women, and especially those deprived of the means to speak for themselves, those who are vulnerable and those striving to make a difference, I congratulate Marie-Christine and Rina, and thank all volunteers and staff who strengthen our and their voice”.