Today in New York, the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) begins. This is the main international platform for discussing gender equality policies and women’s rights. The session, held at the United Nations Headquarters from March 9 to 19, is attended by the Ukrainian delegation, which includes Olha Herasymiuk, Chair of the National Council.
The priority theme of the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women is ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls. Discussions will focus, in particular, on promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, as well as addressing structural barriers that hinder the realization of women’s rights.
Participants from 45 UN member states that make up the Commission will focus on the full and effective participation and decision-making of women in public life. Over the course of two weeks, the session will discuss, in particular:
- the participation of women in public decision-making;
- the eradication of violence against women and girls;
- gender-sensitive post-conflict recovery of states;
- the role of women in peacebuilding processes and the establishment of just peace;
- the protection of women’s rights in the digital environment;
- justice and rehabilitation for women who have returned from captivity;
- the empowerment of all older women.
Ukraine is also initiating a number of thematic events. At one of them, it will present its own experience in countering sexual violence during the war. The event will feature the screening of the documentary film “Traces” directed by Alisa Kovalenko, as well as an exhibition of paintings and a presentation of books.
The Ukrainian delegation at the session is headed by Taras Kachka, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine. The delegation also includes Andrii Melnyk, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations; Kateryna Levchenko, Government Commissioner for Gender Equality Policy; Mariana Betsa, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs; and Olha Herasymiuk, Chair of the National Council.
For Ukraine, participation in the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women is of great importance. It is an opportunity to convey to the international community the truth about the impact of war on women, to strengthen global support for survivors of sexual violence, and to integrate the gender dimension into state recovery, justice, and the building of future peace. At the same time, Ukraine’s experience in countering war crimes and supporting survivors can serve as an important contribution to shaping international policies for the protection of women’s rights in times of conflict.
