Blog of Joe Mason, SI Advocacy and Communications Coordinator 

The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which began on September 10, 2024, marks a significant moment in the global pursuit of progress toward the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although the UNGA does not have a specific theme for the session, the high-level General Debate focuses on SDG 17—partnerships for the goals—under the theme: “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.” World leaders, including heads of state, government officials, and ministers, will gather to discuss solutions to interconnected global challenges, such as climate change, conflict, and inequality. As an organisation dedicated to empowering women and girls, Soroptimist International (SI) maintains an active interest in this global conversation, advocating for the rights of women and girls to ensure that gender equality remains at the forefront of global policies.

Focus of the 79th UNGA: Accelerating Progress on the SDGs

The UNGA is focused on the acceleration of progress toward achieving the 17 SDGs by the 2030 target. With just six years remaining, there is an increased urgency to address global challenges that threaten progress, especially those disproportionately affecting women and girls. These include economic inequality, access to education, healthcare, and the fight against gender-based violence. SI’s mission of educating, empowering, and enabling women and girls around the world is closely tied to the objectives of SDG 4 (Education) and SDG5 (Gender Equality), which underscores our interest in the UNGA. In particular, achieving the SDGs requires a holistic approach, where education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and gender equality are all addressed together to ensure that no one is left behind in the global efforts toward sustainable development.

 

Summit of the Future: Fostering Global Cooperation

One of the central events of the UNGA is the highly anticipated “Summit of the Future.” This summit is a critical forum for enhancing international cooperation to tackle current and future global challenges. With the world facing the devastating impacts of climate change, increasing conflict, and continued inequality, the summit aims to find solutions to protect future generations. SI’s interest in these discussions concerns advocating for relevant policies that protect the rights and opportunities of women and girls, ensuring their voices are included in decisions that shape our future.

Our Engagement with the UNGA

As a global organisation dedicated to the empowerment of women and girls, SI has long been engaged with the UN, participating in the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and other key events. Our involvement in the 79th session of the General Assembly aligns with our mission to ensure that women and girls are not left behind in global efforts to meet the SDGs. By participating throughout the year in discussions, side events, and engaging with member states, we advocate for policies that ensure gender equality remains a central focus in global decision-making.

Women and girls are disproportionately affected by global issues such as poverty, climate change, conflict, and health crises. At events such as the UNGA, SI seeks to contribute to the UN’s mission by working at the grassroots level to educate, empower, and enable women and girls to achieve their full potential. The 79th UNGA provides an invaluable opportunity for us to share our insights, learn from others, and collaborate on a global scale to advance these goals.

Key Decisions and the Role of the General Assembly

As the principal policy-making organ of the UN, the General Assembly plays a critical role in shaping the global agenda. During this session, it will make important decisions on key issues such as:

• The appointment of the UN Secretary-General, based on recommendations from the Security Council.
• The election of non-permanent members to the Security Council.
• The approval of the UN budget for the upcoming period.

Each of these decisions has far-reaching implications for global governance, peace, and development.

Looking Ahead: A Gender-Responsive Future

With Yemen occupying the first seat in this year’s Assembly and nations continuing in English alphabetical order, the symbolic diversity of the General Assembly underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation. SI will continue to work in these contexts to advocate for a future that is gender-responsive and inclusive.

The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly represents a pivotal opportunity for global progress. As the world grapples with complex challenges, it is essential that women and girls are empowered to lead, and SI remains at the forefront of these efforts, driving forward our collective vision of a better, more equal world for all.