So we reach the end of the CSW55: friends made, acquaintances renewed and so much knowledge gained. Having arrived slightly later than others from the SI delegation, I was on a swift learning curve as I attended Official UN sessions and the Parallel events organised by the affiliated NGOs. It was just wonderful to arrive in time for the Launch of UN Women and to hear both Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and new Under Secretary-General Michelle Bachelet (UN Women) speak on the role, importance and crucial involvement of women in all aspects of the work of the UN.

During the last week I have come to recognise that although the CSW focused on Girls’ and Women’s access to Science and Technology Education, other issues are involved in that goal: not least are concerns about women’s health, employment, trafficking, violence against women and education in conflict and emergencies.

The sessions have been uplifting even when the issues discussed are frighteningly difficult and often about destruction of lives. Yet it seems that all participants, women and men, have engaged, discussed and become positive. We will leave the UN building today, I feel, wiser and more determined than ever before to work for the true emancipation of women in whatever form it takes.

Dr Gari Donn

SIGBI

SI Edinburgh