Saudi Envoy Calls for Concrete Action on Gender Equality at UN Conference
Abdulaziz Alwasil, Saudi Arabia’s UN representative, urged nations at the 69th Commission on the Status of Women to turn longstanding commitments into measurable actions for gender equality. He highlighted challenges that could reverse gains in equality and the importance of women’s leadership. The commission, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, emphasized ongoing efforts required to ensure women’s rights and empowerment in various sectors.
Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Abdulaziz Alwasil, called for nations to leverage a significant conference on women’s status in New York as an opportunity to transform decades of commitments to gender equality into actionable measures. He cautioned that global challenges, such as climate change and economic instability, risk reversing progress made towards gender equality. Alwasil emphasized that achieving true progress necessitates unwavering political will, inclusive leadership, and sustained investment.
During the 69th Commission on the Status of Women, Alwasil highlighted this year as the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Beijing Declaration, which established ambitious goals for women’s rights, including equal access to education and healthcare. The commission serves as a crucial global platform meeting annually to examine and advance gender equality.
Reflecting on the achievements since 1995, Alwasil acknowledged that while progress has been made, challenges still impose barriers. He stated, “The promise of Beijing remains as urgent as ever,” underlining the implications of worldwide crises that could undermine established gains in gender equality. The envoy stressed that creating conditions for women to take leadership roles and shape policies is essential.
Alwasil encouraged a transition from commitments to concrete actions, advocating for a gender-equal framework across all policies and initiatives. He declared the necessity to dismantle structural barriers that prevent women from enjoying equal rights and leadership opportunities, stating, “We must create the conditions for women and girls to lead, shape policies and drive solutions.”
Three exceptional women, including Jenna Riffi from Saudi Arabia, were invited to share their personal stories at the commission. Riffi, at just 16 years old, became the youngest member of the NEOM project team, dedicated to building a smart, sustainable megacity. She credited Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia for paving the way for women in STEM fields by providing essential support and opportunities. “I stand today as proof that determination, resilience and a supportive environment can empower young women to achieve incredible dreams,” Riffi stated, highlighting the significance of uplifting future generations of women.
The commission will engage for two weeks, addressing critical topics including poverty, employment, climate change, violence against women, and youth involvement. Through collective efforts, the discussions aim to enhance the progress and empowerment of women globally.
In conclusion, the 69th Commission on the Status of Women highlights the urgent call for global commitment to gender equality, underscoring the ongoing challenges that impair progress. Abdulaziz Alwasil articulated the necessity for political will and investment in women’s empowerment and leadership, while young advocates like Jenna Riffi exemplify the potential achievements of women when given equal opportunities. The commission’s agenda extends to critical issues affecting women worldwide, reinforcing the importance of collective actions in achieving gender parity.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
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