Soroptimist International at CSW69

Soroptimist International is actively participating in CSW69, advocating for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls worldwide. Through side events, discussions, and collaborations, SI will highlight key issues such as climate change, economic empowerment and education. Our representatives will work to ensure women’s voices are heard in shaping global policies. Join us as we drive meaningful change and push for a more just and sustainable future.

Read the SI Advocacy Resource Pack for CSW69 – this pack contains important information and resources to help you make the most of CSW69.

PLEASE NOTE: 

This page will be updated on a regular basis as information becomes available or is updated. Please do keep checking this page in case event venues, dates or times are changed.

Please note that Soroptimist International cannot guarantee event information. Dates, times and venues published here accord with the latest information provided to us.

All times given below are in New York Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). EDT starts on 8 March 2025.

Events involving SI

Women leadership: how traumas develop power and decision making

Monday 10 March, 8.30 to 10.00 am

Participation: in person

Location: CCUN, 10th floor

Description of event: A panel of five high level experts, change makers and female leaders will address ethics, identities and decision making. Our leadership identity development is strongly influenced by: by traumas, the trauma overcome period and the emerging specific leadership qualities during this period. We can become stronger and shape our power of influence and decision making.

Speakers:

• Beata Wandachowicz-Krason, Director at Pharma Impactship Edge Leader
• Shirley Randell OA PhD, Vanuatu Rwanda Bangladesh Australia
• Berthe De Vos-Neven, Soroptimist International Representative to the UN, Geneva; NGO CSW Geneva
• Oleksandra Harmash, UN Women ECA Steering committee Beijing+30 Rural Women Business Network
• Marilupe Morales de Velasco, Chief Ethics Officer NA Rabobank
• Claudia Hopman PhD, candidate,GWL, IAMCLAUDIA

Register to attend this event

More information on this event is on the Whova app.

Empowering Migrant Mothers: Providing Critical Education Pathways for Young Children

Monday 10 March, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Participation: virtual via Whova app

Lead Organisation #1: NGO Committee on Migration subcommittee on Children Migration

Co-Sponsor: Soroptimist International

Description of event: Join us for a virtual parallel event at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, focusing on the impact of forced migration on children’s development and the critical role of caregivers. This session will highlight key challenges and promising practices in addressing mental health, trauma, and social-emotional learning (SEL); while advancing the mandate to provide quality education for marginalized girls in alignment with the commitments of the Beijing +30 Platform for Action.

The virtual panel discussion will explore the intersection of migration, caregiving, and education. Specifically, it will highlight the unique emotional and developmental needs of children affected by migration, the role of mothers as primary caregivers, and the importance of addressing the barriers to education faced by historically marginalised girl children.

Educating women: Unlocking global potential and overcoming challenges worldwide

Monday 10 March 2025, 12.30pm

Participation: virtual, access the link here

Organisers: Soroptimist International and Women in Leadership Organisation (WILO) and WFWPI

Description of event: As the global community aim for gender equality by 2030, access to education and leadership for women and girls is a key focus. This presentation examines women’s status in education and leadership roles, exploring 20th Century historical evidence and the shift towards greater 21st-century opportunities. Using a meta-analysis of educational data, barriers women face, and success stories, we will assess how globalisation is reshaping women’s access to education and leadership. Additionally, we will discuss strategies to create more inclusive and equitable opportunities for women in education, leadership, and other areas fostering lasting change for gender equality.

More information is available on the Whova app.

Bankrupting the Business of Human Trafficking- Beijing +30 – Techniques that Work

GBV outcomes & future actions: How CSOs enhance their influence

Tuesday 11 March 2025, 8.30 am to 10.00 am

Parallel event

Participation: in-person

Event ID#: 16683

Organisers: PDC of PPSEAWA International and TCEA and Taiwan Coalition Anti Violence

Location: CCUN, 8th floor

SI representative will give the opening address and Dr. Nina Smart is one of the presenters.

Moderator: Ms Helen Yang

Speakers include:

• Mondhiya Bhangsbha, President of PPSEAWA International
• Akari Yamala, First Vice President of PPSEAWA International
• Beverley Bucur, Advocacy Advisor to SI
• Shuwen Liao, Secretary General of Taiwan Coalition Violence Against Women
• Dr. Mariko Fujikawa, PPSEAWA Japan
• Dr. Nina Smart, Founder of SWF International and Governor at Soroptimist International of Europe
• Dr. Chen-Yu Chiu (Cho), Director and Principal Architect of the Taiwan-Reyhanli Center for World Citizens

Looking Forwards: Abolishing Invisibility

Tuesday 11 March 2025, 9.30 to 11.00 am

Participation: in person

Location: Bahai International Community Offices, 866 UN Plaza

Sponsor: Widows Rights International,

Other Organisations: Global Fund for Widows, Nebbf, NAWQ, Advance

Description of event: round table event with experts from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UAE, together with global organisations such as Age International and Global Fund for Widows will share news of their work for widows. The multiple disadvantages faced by widows globally is mostly invisible due to lack of data. The last 30 years has seen little progress. This interactive session aims to provide a space for meaningful conversations interrogating ways to ensure the situation for widows is improved and highlighting how widows, when empowered, can become active agents of change.

Key note: HE Ambassador Dr. Mrs Olufolake Abdulrazaq, First Lady of Kwara state, chairperson for all Nigeria First Ladies. HRH Princess Dr. Moradeun Ogunlana

Register to join the event

Artificial Intelligence: A transformative force for all women & girls

Tuesday 11 March 2025, 4.45 to 6.00 pm

Side event

Participation: in-person

Organisers: ITU SI

Co-Sponsors: UNFPA, UN Women, EQUALS/GSMA

Permanent Missions involved: Costa Rica, Canada, South Africa, Saudi Arabia (TBC)

Other partners: Devoteam

Location: UN Secretariat, Conference Room E

Description of event: Highlight that AI is a cross-cutting aspect for all 12 critical areas of concern within the Beijing +30 revision with the participation of relevant stakeholders from the industry, private sector, civil society, UN systems and international organisations. Examine the game-changing solutions and technologies that equip all women and girls with the capacities and skills to thrive in an inclusive and meaningful future.  The Secretary General of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and President of ECOSOC will be present.   

Improving outcomes for trafficked migrant women and girls

Wednesday 12 March 2025, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Participation: virtual – details on Whova platform

Event ID #: 16726

Presented by the Peace Foundation, WARBE Development Foundation and Apne AAP

Event description: Join to discuss the intersection, from global to local levels, of migration and the trafficking of women and girls along the South East Asia/Middle East corridors. Representatives from government, development organisations and a survivor of sex trafficking will share their insights and experiences.

Speakers:

• Mahjabeen Khaled, Secretary General of the Parliamentarians’ caucus on Migration and Development Bangladesh
• Jasiya Khatoon, Director of WARBE Development Foundation
• Hasina Akteer Haq, Development expert
• Trafficking survivor

Do older women have economic and social rights: social and economic development for older women: yesterday, today and tomorrow

Wednesday 12 March, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm

Participation: virtual

Lead Organisation #1: NGO Committee on Ageing

Description of event: This virtual parallel event at the CSW69/Beijing+30 will address the economic status of older woman since adoption of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Discussion will include degree of achievement, persistent barriers, and strategic efforts toward development of social protections aimed at reducing poverty and actualizing the equality of older women as valued members of society now and in the future.

The context of panel discussion will be through the lens of older women and their social and economic gains as related to the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals of reducing poverty and gender equality. Speakers will discuss their role at the 1995 Beijing Conference and action items (Yesterday); examine the economic contributions of older women in their communities (Today); and explore global efforts toward ensuring adequate incomes for older women (Tomorrow).

Speakers and topics:

• Judy Lear, MPA, UN Representative, International Council of Jewish Women: ‘Older women and the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action’.
• Tanvi Patel, MA, HelpAge International: ‘Current social and economic status of older women’.
• Mabel Bianco, MD, MPH, The Foundation for Studies and Research on Women: ‘The future of older women, the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals’.
• Ramsey Alwin, MBA, CEO, National Council on Ageing: Moderator.

Join on Zoom

Intersection of poverty and violence against older women

Thursday 13 March, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Participation: virtual

Lead Organisation #1: NGO Committee on Ageing NY

Description of event: This virtual parallel event at the CSW69/Beijing+30 will address poverty and violence among older Indigenous women, grandmothers raising HIV-affected orphans, and widows. Strengths and resilience, as well as the need for human rights protections, are discussed. Challenges and barriers to achieving the stated goals of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action for women of all ages, including eliminating poverty and violence, are explored, along with recommendations for needed action. The context of the panel discussion is through the lens of older women in communities struggling with the challenges of economic security in the face of changing climate and broader societal issues, as well as the need to protect and care for children affected by HIV. Needed governmental protections are highlighted, and remedies are presented.

Speakers:

Opening remarks: Susan B. Somers, President, International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse

Panel moderator: Dr. Pamela B. Teaster, Professor and Director, Virginia Tech Center for Gerontology

Panellists:

• Dr. Jordan P. Lewis, Director of Research, College of Indigenous Studies, University of Alaska, Fairbanks
• Nkanyiso Khumalo, Project Manager and Community Development Specialist, goGOGOgo, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Jane Simmonds, Founder and Executive Director, goGOGOgo, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Discussant: Ms. Claudia Mahler, UN Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons

Visit Whova for access to live stream

Towards a New Optional Protocol to CEDAW: Strengthening International Protection Against Violence Against Women and Girls

13 March 2025, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Location: Salvation Army Auditorium, 123 W13th St, New York, NY 10011

Lead Organisation #1: Every Woman Treaty (EWT) &

Organisation #2: The Carter Centre

Co-Sponsor: Soroptimist International

Description of event: This parallel event, co-hosted with the Carter Center alongside the INGOs Alliance and Every Woman Treaty, aims to raise awareness among the international community and civil society organizations on the importance of a new Optional Protocol to CEDAW to address violence against women and girls.

It provides a platform to:

• Discuss the gaps in existing instruments
• Encourage stakeholders to support this initiative
• Adopt and support a Joint Statement from all participating INGOs
• Strengthening collaboration and solidarity among INGOs in advancing gender equality and combating VAWG
• Enhance visibility and political momentum for the campaign to adopt the new Optional Protocol to CEDAW

Speakers:

• Professor Rashida Manjoo, Former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls
• Dr Dubravka Simonovic, Former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls
• Leigh Ellwood- Brown, Director for Advocacy, Soroptimist International
• Karin Ryan, Senior Policy Advisor, The Carter Center
• Patricia Elias, Chief of Global Diplomatic Campaign, Every Woman Treaty

Inclusive Social Policies to Achieve Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment and End Homelessness

Thursday 13 March 2025, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Participation: virtual event

Register to attend on Zoom

Sponsored by: UN Working Group to End Homelessness

Co-Sponsor: Soroptimist International

Description of event: Women and girls constitute a significant and growing, though often less visible, percentage of homeless populations, and due to universal gender inequality, their circumstances demand additional attention and actions. This parallel event will explore how inclusive social policies can address the intersection of homelessness and the feminisation of poverty, emphasizing that doing so is crucial to achieve the Beijing Platform for Action’s goals. A variety of multistakeholder experts will discuss how the provision of gender-sensitive social protections can disrupt cycles of poverty, housing insecurity, and exclusion, particularly for women and girls experiencing homelessness and displacement.

Soroptimists ‘on the road’ to bridging the gaps of Beijing+30

Thursday 13 March 2025, 12.30 to 2.00 pm

Parallel event

Participation: in-person

Event ID #: 17052

Organisers: SIGBI, SIE, SIA, SIAF, SISEAP

Location: Church Building, 777 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017 (Opposite UN building) 

Description of event: Soroptimist International supports the implementation of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, UN Security Resolution 1325, CEDAW and the UN Sustainable Development Goals in particular SDG5 on gender equality and women’s empowerment. Advocating for Human Rights and Gender Equality internationally together with Soroptimists globally providing ‘on the ground’ projects for some of the most vulnerable women and girls in our communities; often working in partnership with decision makers and other NGO’s to achieve greater results; we contribute to bridging the gaps within Beijing+30.

Running order and speakers:

12.30 pm: Housekeeping Hana Smith, SI Global Policy Advisor and Leigh Ellwood Brown, SI Director of Advocacy as moderator

12.35 pm: Opening remarks from SI President Siew Yong Gnanalingam

12.40 pm: Soroptimist International Africa Federation (SIAF):

Winnie Maru (SI Eldoret, Kenya): Sanitation Dignity Programme

12.47 pm: Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA)

President Ginger Cole, SIA: ‘Bridging the Gap for Education and Economic Empowerment for Women and Girls’

12.55 pm: Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE)

Rita Noguiera Ramos, VP Advocacy, SIE: ‘Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy: The SI Club Aarau Soroptimist Initiative’

1.05 pm: Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland

Lindsay Green, Programme Director at SIGBI: ‘Surrey Soroptimists Bridge the Gaps on Women’s Safety’

1.12 pm: Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific

President Joanne Yeoh, SISEAP: ‘Save Mother Earth’

1.20 pm: SI President Siew Yong Gnanalingam: Soroptimist International Foundation

1.30 pm: Alice Paolo Pomè: ‘Youth Vision for International Cooperation. Outcomes from the Women7 experience’

1.55 pm: Closing remarks: SI President Elect Renata Trottmann Probst

2.00 pm: close

Ending gender-based violence: community-led projects that unlock the potential of women and girls

Friday 14 March, 8.30 am

Participation: virtual

Organisers: International Presentation Association

Co-sponsors: International Association of Charities, Graduate Women International, Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Council of North and South America, School Sisters of Notre Dame, Soroptimist International, Women in Agriculture for Sustainable Development

Description of event: Violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread human rights violations, impacting their physical and mental health and limiting their ability to enjoy equal rights. Nearly one in three women globally experience physical or sexual violence, with over 51,100 women murdered by partners or family members in 2023 alone—equating to one death every 10 minutes. Conflict, climate change, and poverty further expose women and girls to violence, leaving many with little choice but to endure abuse for survival. While progress has been made since the Beijing Declaration, urgent action is still needed to strengthen protections, challenge gender stereotypes, and fulfil the promise of gender equality.

Opening remarks: Francisca Gallegos Jara, Undersecretary of Social Services, Government of Chile

Speakers:

• Dorothy Fernandes, PBVM, International Presentation Association, Bihar, India
• Hawa Dunor-Varney, Executive Director, Women in Agriculture for Sustainable Development, Liberia
• Francine Poppo, BCC, Executive Director SSND Educational Center – Ling Liu, Student, SSND Educational Center, United States
• Sonide Simon-Romain, Vincentian Family Haiti Initiative, Haiti
• Niki Devaris-Morgulis, Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Council of North and South America, United States

Moderator: Dr. Despoina Afroditi Milaki, UN Representative, International Presentation Association

Register on Zoom for this event

How can we lower environmental impact on women and girls?

Friday 14 March 2025, 2.30 to 4.00 pm

Parallel event

Participation: in-person

Event ID #: 17297

Other organisers: SI, United Voices for Global Impact and Soroptimist International of Anchorage, Alaska

Co-sponsors: NGO CSW Geneva and ZONTA International

Location: Church Centre, UN (CCUN), 10th floor

Description of event: An intact natural environment provides air, land, and water for a healthy, sustainable life.  Unfortunately, environmental degradation, especially climate change, disproportionately harms the health of women and girls and increases risks of communicable and non-communicable diseases.  Women and girls are exposed to increased risks of disease, reduced access to clean water and sanitation, and greater burdens of caregiving and resource collection.  Addressing these challenges requires urgent, gender-responsive policies and actions to protect and empower the most vulnerable populations.             

Accelerating Gender Justice and Safe Workplaces for All: Advancing ILO Convention No. 190 for a Violence-Free Future

Monday 17 March 2025, 8.30 to 10.30 am

Participation: virtual, join live stream via Whova app

Organisations: NGO Committee on Financing Development, NGO CSW, NGO Committee Social Development, NGO Committee on Migration, NGO Committee to STOP Trafficking 1n Persons

Register on Zoom

We regret to inform you that this event has been cancelled. We apologise for any inconvenience caused:

Mental health challenges – women and health

Monday 17 March 2025, 10.30am to 12.00 noon

Participation: in-person

Event ID#: 17116

Organisers: The Grail, Soroptimist International

Location: Salvation Army Auditorium, 221 East 52nd Street, NY10022

How a changing natural environment affects the health of women and girls, with recommended actions  

Tuesday 18 March 2025, 4.45 to 6.00 pm

Side event

Participation: in-person

Organisers: Permanent Mission of Greece to the UN, Soroptimist International

Co-Sponsors: Permanent Mission of Austria to the UN (TBC), NGO CSW Geneva, ZONTA International, Soroptimist International of Anchorage, Alaska

Location: UN General Assembly Building: Conference Room A

Description of event: An intact natural environment provides air, land, and water for a healthy, sustainable life.  Unfortunately, environmental degradation, especially climate change, disproportionately harms the health of women and girls and increases risks of communicable and non-communicable diseases.  Women and girls are exposed to increased risks of disease, reduced access to clean water and sanitation, and greater burdens of caregiving and resource collection.  Addressing these challenges requires urgent, gender-responsive policies and actions to protect and empower the most vulnerable populations

SI President Siew Yong Gnanalingam will give the closing remarks.

Beijing+30 – Achievements, gaps, challenges and resolutions: Women and health

Wednesday 19 March 2025, 10.30 am to 12.00 noon

Parallel event

Participation: in-person and virtual

Join via Zoom platform

Meeting ID: 828 7095 2993

Passcode: 734185

Event ID#: 17055

Organisers: Medical Women International Association (MWIA), Soroptimist International, International Health Awareness Network (IHAN), Every Woman Treaty (EWT) and American Medical Women Association (AMWA)

Location: CCUN, 8th floor

Description of event: The Medical Women’s International Association, Every Woman Treaty, Soroptimist International and International Health Awareness Network come together to present their assessment of progress, achievements, identified gaps, challenges encountered and their solutions to improve the health and quality of life for women and girls, within their area of expertise relative to the Beijing +30. Join us to see the medical women outline their strategies to address those identified gaps and challenges to work towards the acceleration of the implementation of the Platform for action and gender equality within the critical area of Women and Health.

Topics include: Beijing 1995, Strategies for Women’s Health,Maternal Health, Global Perspective on Breast Cancer, Violence Against Women and Girls, Infant Mortality, AI and its Impact on the Health of Women.

Speakers include:

• Eleanor Nwadinobi MD, President Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA)
• Leigh Ellwood- Brown, Director for Advocacy, Soroptimist International
• Gabrielle Casper MBBS, President, International Health Awareness Network (IHAN), Past President MWIA
• Eliza Chin MD, Executive Director, American Medical Women’s Association
• Connie Newman, MD, Vice President North America, Medical Women’s International Association
• Sorosh Roshan, MD, Founder, International Health Awareness Network
• Siew Yong Gnanalingam,  Soroptomist International President

Moderators:

• Berthe De Vos-Neven, SI Lead Representative to UN, Geneva
• Bev Johnson MD, MWIA UN Representative

Panellists:

• Veronica-Rodriguez-Torres, MD, President, Pan American Women’s Alliance, President MWIA Mexico
• Orchid Alexander MD, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Morristown NJ Medical Center
• Rhema Joy Hooper, MWIA Youth Representative, Lehigh College of Health
• Patricia Elias, Chief, Global Diplomatic Campaign, Every Woman Treaty
• Olga Tzortzatou Nanopoulos, Soroptimist International Representative to the UN, Vienna

Changing face of violence against women

Thursday 20 March, 10.00 am

Side event

Focus: how technology has introduced new forms of violence against women

Participation: virtual

Register in advance to join on Zoom. 

Organisers: Soroptimist International and Permanent Mission of Romania to the UN

Description of event: In 2025, 30 years after the 4th World Conference on Women the goal of achieving full equality for all women and girls is more critical than ever. The global polycrisis, increasing pushback against women’s and girls’ human rights, and the evolving digital landscape demand renewed efforts to address the increasing discrimination and violence against women and girls.

Despite increased awareness, gender-based violence, including on-line and in person, remains a pervasive issue across all regions. Experts estimate that 1 in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime, though most cases go unreported. Violence against women and girls (VAWG) affects women of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. The root causes include climate change, poverty, conflict, displacement, gender stereotyping, patriarchy, misogyny, and negative impacts of technology. Nearly three decades later, significant work remains to create a world free from violence for all women and girls.

Running order:

• Moderator: Beverly Bucur – housekeeping, introductions.
• Welcome: Siew Yong Gnanalingam, Soroptimist International President.
• Opening Remarks: Mr. Simion-Permanent Mission of Romania of Romania. 
• Anne K Ream: Telling  Their Stories- Survivors’ Tales.
• Dr. Nina Smart: FGM Issues and Solutions.
• Gail Dekreon: Cybercrime in the judicial system.
• Bonita Zarrillo, MP Canada: How Social Media is used to discredit, harass and discourage Women from entering politics and positions of authority. 
• Linda Witong: UN resolutions: Resolution 792453, December 2024 UN Convention Against Cybercrime, Resolution 79152, December 2024 and their implications.
• Rita Nogueira Ramos: Vice President of Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE), leading its advocacy efforts to advance women’s rights and gender equality with her federation. 
• Liberato Bautista, President of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO) will provide concluding remarks.

Speakers:

Beverly Bucur is an educator serving as a teacher, educator and curriculum specialist in literacy, bilingual education and technology. She is a Soroptimist who has served the organisation at the International, Federation, Region and Club levels.

President Siew Yong Gnanalingam holds a Bachelor of Economics and a Diploma in Accounting from the University of Malaya. She began her career at the Economic Development Board of Singapore in 1969 before becoming the first female executive at Malaysian Tobacco Company in 1970. In 1978, she joined Malaysia Airlines System, leading PR campaigns that enhanced its image. She retired as Vice President of Group Corporate Communications in 1997 and was recognised in Reflections of Pioneer Malaysian Trailblazers (2022). A passionate entrepreneur and advocate for women’s rights, Siew Yong has held leadership roles in Soroptimist International (SI) since 1994, including President of SI Malaysia and President of SI South East Asia Pacific (2012–2014). In 2024, she became the first Asian President of SI, championing sustainability. She also serves as a trustee and board member in various organisations.

Mr Simion-Adrian Purza, Permanent Mission of Romania to the United Nations is currently the human rights counsellor within the Permanent Mission of Romania to the United Nations and delegate to the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly. Prior to jointing the mission in New York, Mr. Purza was the co-agent of Romania in front of the European Court of Human Rights. He is a career diplomat with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania and holds a PHD in law.

Anne K. Ream is a writer, activist and the Co-Founder of At Center for Story and Witness (formerly the Voices and Faces Project). Anne K. Ream has spent the past 20 years creating social spaces where the voices of gender-based violence survivors are heard. Her ground breaking book Lived Through This is a memoir of her journey spent listening to the stories of survivors of gender based violence. Anne is a passionate believer in media as a tool to create social change. storyandwitness.org

Dr. Nina Smart is an artist, author, sociologist and champion of human rights for all women and girls who educates the public about FGM. She is the founder of Servicing Wild Flowers- SWF International, a Los Angeles non-profit NGO. New York Brazilian based composer teamed up with Nina to create the opera, Wild Flowers, the story of a Romanian girl at risk of undergoing FGM in Sierra Leone. www.swfinternational.org

Gail Dekreon is a semi-retired Superior Court Judge from who has dealt with issues of cyber security. As a longtime advocate for women’s rights, Gail is knowledgeable about the implications these issues may have on the lives of women and girls.

Bonita Zarrillo was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Port Moody – Coquitlam in 2021. She is currently the NDP Critic for Infrastructure and Communities; Disability Inclusion; Seniors and the Deputy Health Critic. Zarrillo is an active member of the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities. During her first term as MP, she brought forward multiple private members bills including C-422 and C-415, which would end disability clawbacks for couples and stop rich airlines from abusing labour loopholes for unpaid work from flight attendants respectively. Before coming to Ottawa, she spent 3 terms as a municipal city councillor. Just as she did when she was a councillor, she continues to champion buy-local, challenge pipeline corporations, and get things done. Her previous roles include multiple not for profit boards that advocate for gender identity and equality. She has also been a regular panellist at The Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations.  Ms. Zarrillo has a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Manitoba, a Human Resource Management Certificate from the University of Calgary and a Computer Science Degree from CDI Montreal.

Linda Witong is a retired prosecutor who is currently an Advocacy Advisor and Representative to the UN for Soroptimist International, as well as a Board member on the Board of the Alliance of NGOs in Vienna. Linda is a recipient of the Outstanding Prosecutor Award and was recently inducted into the Marin County Women’s Hall of where she received special recognition for her work on a local, regional and international basis by the US Congress, California Senate and the Marin County Supervisors in February of 2024.

Rita Nogueira Ramos, is the Vice President of Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE), leading its advocacy efforts to advance women’s rights and gender equality with her federation. With a strong background in law and human rights, she has been instrumental in shaping SIE’s advocacy strategy, developing impactful campaigns, and engaging with European institutions, UN bodies, and civil society networks to drive policy change. As Chair of the SIE Advocacy Team (2019-2021 and current term), Rita has led the organization’s contributions to global advocacy, including drafting position papers, preparing statements, and coordinating high-impact initiatives such as the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. She plays a key role in ensuring SIE’s advocacy aligns with international frameworks such as the Istanbul Convention and CEDAW, promoting policy reforms that protect and empower women and girls.

Liberato C. Bautista is a civil society leader with four decades of experience in faith-based, ecumenical, and non-governmental organisations. He is President of CoNGO, an international NGO with UN ECOSOC consultative status, and represents The United Methodist Church-General Board of Church and Society at the United Nations. Previously, he chaired COO UNA-USA and CRNGO. Bautista studied political science, history, and international studies at the University of the Philippines and religion and ethics at Drew University (USA). A Fellow of the World Academy of Art and Science, he has lectured globally and published on NGOs, civil society, human rights, and social justice.

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Looking forwards: abolishing invisibility

Thursday 20 March 2025, 3.00 to 4.15 pm

Side event

Participation: in-person

Permanent Missions involved: Permanent Mission of Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the UN

Other NGO/CSO’s involved: Widows Rights International (WRI), National Human Rights Commission of Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Latter-day Saint Charities, Soroptimist International

Location: Conference Room E, UN General Assembly Building

Description of event: Data on widows is incomplete, however it is widely agreed by organisations working in the field that a conservative estimate would be over 300 million widows worldwide. This event aims to raise awareness of the plight of widows; the diversity, range and size of this demographic; & their contribution to their communities when enabled.

Experts and activists will share best practice from around the globe. All participants will then be able to contribute to the discourse on how to alleviate the plight of widows and recognise them as positive agents of change.

Speakers include: HE Ambassador Zénon MUKONGO NGAY Dr Eleanor Nwadinobi, President WIDO Richie Lontulungu, Dep Secretary HRC

Institutional mechanisms for human rights and decision-making of women

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Institutional mechanisms for human rights and decision making of women

Thursday 20 March 2025, 10.30 to 11.55 pm

Parallel event

Participation: virtual

Event ID#: 17361

Organiser: SI Taipei Hsingyi Club

Description of event:

The intersection of gender equality and trade has gained increasing attention in recent years, highlighting the need to ensure that women benefit equally from global economic opportunities. While trade can drive economic growth, it is often not gender-neutral; women face unique challenges such as limited access to markets, financial services, technology, and leadership roles. These barriers prevent many women from fully participating in and benefiting from the global trade system. This session will discuss how targeted trade reforms can facilitate women’s transition from informal to formal economic sectors, thereby securing their economic rights and contributing to inclusive and sustainable growth.

The session will build on recent global and regional efforts to mainstream gender in trade discussions, including the 2017 Buenos Aires Joint Declaration on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, the establishment of the WTO Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender in 2020, and the Global Trade and Gender Seminar in 2022. Most recently, in 2024, APEC held its first Women and Trade Joint Ministerial Meeting and issued a declaration to advance gender-responsive trade practices. These initiatives and actions underscore the importance of addressing the unique challenges women face in trade and ensuring their equal participation in economic activities.

Currently, women are overrepresented in the informal economy, comprising 58% of informal workers globally (ILO, 2018). This makes them more vulnerable to job insecurity, lack of social protections, and lower earnings. However, as digital economies and global value chains expand, there are new opportunities to integrate women into formal economic sectors. Ensuring women’s access to digital tools, educational resources, and leadership positions can create pathways for their economic empowerment. Moreover, data from the World Economic Forum shows that closing the gender gap in the workforce could add $12 trillion to global GDP, highlighting the economic benefits of gender-responsive trade policies.

Through this session, we will explore practical solutions for policy makers, trade experts, and advocates to integrate gender perspectives into trade frameworks, such as through gender-inclusive trade agreements and enhanced access to digital infrastructure. By promoting women’s economic rights in trade, we aim to create a more equitable global economy where women’s contributions are recognized and valued, driving prosperity for all. The discussion will include the sharing of best practices, strategies for advancing women’s participation in trade, and recommendations for future collaboration to ensure that the benefits of trade are widely realized by all, including women.

Moderator: Ms. Helen Yang, Chairperson of Program Development Committee, PPSEAWA International and Executive Consultant of Taiwan Creative Economy Association

Speakers:

• Ms. Hsiu-lien Lu, Former Vice President of Taiwan, 2000~2008. Topic: Stop War‧ Save The Earth-The Birth of She-Century.
• Dr. Anastassia Fedyk, Assistant Professor of Finance, UC Berkeley, Haas School of Business. Topic: AI, Work, and Women: Reshaping Economic Opertunity in the Digital Age.
• Dr. Chen-Yu Chiu (Cho), Director and Principal Architect of the Taiwan-Reyhanli Center for World Citizens. Topic: Two Crises, One Hope | Taiwan-Reyhanli Centre for World Citizens. 
• Ms. Sharon Fisher, Past President of Soroptimist International. Topic:  Empowering Change:  Building Support for the Advancement of Women.
• Dr. Ying-Jun Lin, Assistant Professor of School of Law, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taiwan. Topic: Addressing Challenges and Opportunities of Women in the Digital Economy: The Role of Trade Policy and Taiwan’s Experiences.
• Ms. Shuwen Liao, Secretary General of Taiwan Coalition Against Violence. Topic: Digital abuse – Responding and Prevention for Image-based Sexual Violence and Stalking. 
• Ms. Helen Lihsuan Lee, Supervisor of Foundation for Women’s Rights Promotion and Development.
• President Fred Chen, President of The Taiwan Creative Economy Association. Topic: How Artificial Intelligence Works, and Impacts Ethical Decision-making and Human Rights.
• Ms. Ta-Hua Yeh, Member of The Control Yuan of The Republic of China (Taiwan). Topic: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: The Next Human Rights Challenge.

Zoom Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85425452639?pwd=K5xWbrTgZB5jFHvahlAr4Khc5JdFoM.1

Meeting ID: 854 2545 2639   Passcode : 622012

SI gathering

Federation events

Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP): ‘Adolescents agents for Advocacy’

Friday 14 March 2025, 6.30 pm.

Virtual event, please go to the link to register

Lead Organisation #1: SI South East Asia Pacific

Description of event: With over 60% of our population under 25 years old (UNFPA), their future needs to have a safer environment from climate, conflict and corruption. Young girls and women are at highest risk of danger, disease, distress, duress, and denied freedom through modern slavery and human trafficking. Join SISEAP as we navigate pathways to the future for adolescents which include proper recognition, quality education, preventative health, safe technology, economic empowerment, and participation as outlined in the UN Pact for the Future.

Other events

NGO CSW Consultation CSW69 Day

Exhibition: ‘Siolence’

12 to 28 March 2025. Monday to Friday, 2.00 to 6.00 pm

Free entry

Location: 11th floor, Austrian Cultural Forum in New York, 11 East 52nd Street, NY10022

Siolence deliberately stages silence—the space where victims retreat and violence remains a taboo. Developed by Soroptimist Austria and BBDO Vienna, this powerful exhibition captures the hidden suffering of those who have endured abuse, control, and assault. Acclaimed photographer Elfie Semotan brings this vision to life with striking sensitivity. Through photographs and interviews by BBDO Vienna and Cosmix Media, survivors break their silence for the first time, sharing their stories with raw honesty. Siolence is not about silence—it is a call to witness, listen, and act. Violence against women must never be ignored.

‘The Exceptional Nina Smart: A Portrait in Words and Song’ – conversation and opera recital

Friday 14 March, 7.00 to 9.00 pm

Location: The Romanian Cultural Institute

Location: 200 E 38th Street, NY10016

This event is an evening of storytelling, advocacy, and music honoring writer, activist, and librettist Nina Smart. Her memoir, Wild Flower: The True Story of a Romanian Girl in Africa, recounts her journey from escaping Ceaușescu’s dictatorship and FGM in Sierra Leone to becoming a leading activist. Now, her story is inspiring an opera-in-the-making. Celebrate female resilience with a conversation with Nina, an exploration of her book, and an exclusive preview of the upcoming opera.

More information is available on the Romanian Cultural Institute website.

More information on CSW69 and useful links:

Visit NGO CSW for more information.

Read the official CSW69 documents on the NGO CSW website.

Register on Whova, CSW69’s event app.

Go to the NGO CSW Advocacy Guide app: via the website and via Apple Store link.

Beijing+30 Civil Society Forum & Background Documents: 

Beijing+30 Civil Society Forum Program

Also includes:

• UNECE Beijing+30 Abridged, Text-only Working Group Statements
• UNECE Beijing+30 Consultation Summary

UN and Member States’ reports: 

• National reports for CSW69
• UN Women questionnaire and answers

Mission statements and UN Blue Book: 

• Mission’s CSW69 Statements on UN Women Website
• UN Blue Book – Member States & NGOs Directory

UN Women Directory of National Mechanisms for Gender Equality