UN Women Chief Declares Global Resolve for Women's Rights Unbroken
Executive Director of UN Women, Sima Bahous, has firmly declared that despite mounting global challenges, the collective determination to advance women's rights remains unshaken and resilient. Delivering her closing remarks at the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at United Nations Headquarters, Bahous emphasized that the Commission had sent a clear and powerful message that women and girls' right to justice is absolutely non-negotiable.
Strong Headwinds, Stronger Resolve
"The headwinds are strong, but our shared resolve to advance women's rights is stronger," Bahous stated unequivocally. Over the course of the intensive two-week session, delegates and civil society actors demonstrated what Bahous described as remarkable energy, unwavering determination, and passionate commitment, reaffirming the centrality of gender equality to global peace, security, and sustainable development.
According to Bahous, meaningful participation of women across all sectors—from governance and peace processes to economic systems—is absolutely essential for genuine national progress and advancement. "Without equal access to justice, economic opportunity, and a life free from violence, our nations will not move forward," she stressed with conviction.
Historic Outcomes and Leadership Recognition
Bahous commended the exemplary leadership of the CSW70 Bureau, led by Chair Maritza Chan Valverde, alongside Vice-Chairs Andreea Mocanu, Samah Dbouk, Noah Oehri, and Flavia Umulisa, for steering what she described as a revitalized and impactful session of the Commission. She also expressed deep appreciation to Member States and the entire UN system for their continued support, noting that the tangible impact of UN Women's work is clearly reflected in strengthened laws, more inclusive economies, and peace processes significantly shaped by women's leadership.
Highlighting the Commission's significant outcomes, Bahous pointed to the adoption of "historic Agreed Conclusions," which strategically place women and girls' access to justice at the very heart of the global gender equality agenda. The comprehensive document calls on governments worldwide to review discriminatory laws, address harmful social norms, and strengthen responses to violence against women both online and offline.
Groundbreaking Recognition and Urgent Focus Areas
For the first time in such documents, the Conclusions formally recognize the crucial role of community justice workers and paralegals in expanding access to justice, while also addressing the specific challenges faced by women in detention and incarceration. The session further emphasized accountability for perpetrators of violence, the importance of trauma-informed support services, and the critical need for adequate financing to ensure universal access to legal aid.
Bahous drew particular attention to women and girls in conflict and crisis settings, citing countries such as Afghanistan, Gaza, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, Ukraine, South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia as areas where the need for justice and protection remains extremely urgent. "They pay the highest price," she said solemnly, calling for a return to the rule of law and respect for the UN Charter.
Revitalized Format and Extensive Participation
CSW70 also marked the first session following the adoption of a revitalization resolution by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, introducing important reforms such as a more concise outcome document, a multi-stakeholder hearing, and high-level engagements specifically focused on violence against women and the rights of older women.
Participation at the session was extensive and impressive, with representatives from 190 Member States, including heads of government, ministers, and more than 4,600 civil society participants. A total of 255 side events were held, reflecting widespread global engagement on gender equality issues and demonstrating the international community's commitment to these matters.
Looking Ahead to Future Progress
Looking ahead, Bahous announced that the 71st session of the Commission will focus on assessing progress toward gender equality across the Sustainable Development Goals, noting that with 2030 rapidly approaching, no indicators under Goal five have been fully achieved yet. She also referenced the forthcoming election of a new UN Secretary-General, expressing hope that the global body could soon be led by a woman for the first time in history.
"As we leave this room, let us carry forward the urgency that shaped this session. The world is watching. Women and girls are counting on us and together, we must, and we will, deliver," she urged in her powerful closing statement, leaving delegates with a clear call to action and renewed commitment.
