We’ve had an inspiring first week of CSW and want to share some impressions with you. A more in-depth analysis will follow later, after the conclusion of CSW.
Entering the UN building to attend the CSW brought back vivid memories of my time as an intern at UN Women. Walking through those halls again reminded me of the sense of purpose and possibility that comes from being part of thoughtful, strategic conversations on human rights, women’s leadership, and gender equality. The atmosphere felt both inspiring and serene. What made the experience even more meaningful was engaging in these discussions alongside brave women and men who are committed to making this world a more equitable and better place for future generations. - Pooja
This is my third year attending CSW in New York in person. The United States has broken with the past and abandoned gender equality (it was the only country to vote NO on the Agreed Conclusions). But the rest of the member states have not given up. I saw especially the Europeans taking the lead on several issues related to this year’s theme on access to justice. I am so happy to be part of an international organization. We are part of the global voice defending democracy and gender equality. - Beth
My biggest single impression is that the US abuse of the UN and CSW is even worse than I expected. Visa denial problems are not new but I heard that 75 nations were totally denied visas this year. And we women need to unite to demand a woman Secretary General finally! - Ellen
My impression is that there are fewer participants than in previous years and that people are feeling less hopeful. A woman at my hotel, who stated she was from Norway, told us she thought this would be the last CSW. It was very sobering and a bit startling to hear her say that. - Karen
I’ve been very pleased that I have been able to see the UN from the inside and actually be in spaces where history has been made, like the General Assembly chamber, the Security Council chamber, and the ECOSOC conference room. I found the sessions in Church Center to be more engaging and intimate. - Gabor
As a first-time attendee at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, I wasn’t sure of what to expect and found myself truly impressed by this 70th gathering of the global feminine. Nevertheless, it was impossible to ignore how lived reality managed to intrude on the optimism when just days prior to this gathering, a missile stuck an elementary school, killing 175 girls and their teachers. Yet during the opening ceremony, as I listened to Malala Yousafzai, I was reminded that even amid such violence, the collective feminine endures… united in grief and the unyielding hope for a more just world. - Gail
I am inspired by the testimonies of human rights defenders across the world, for their courage, compassion & strength in working for justice & peace. - Barbara
It has been an absolutely incredible and inspiring experience to see so very many passionate, determined, well-spoken and effective women from all over the globe and from all kinds of sectors/areas raising their voices together in solidarity. Very grateful to ICUUW for connecting me to CSW and to know I can attend every year even if I am not on-site. - Allison (participating remotely)
Funding cuts affect the work of hundreds of NGO’s, especially those doing trainings. Women and children are the most affected groups. Some of the panelists expressed hope that the private sector will be willing to help more. There are some signs in this regard. - Adél (participating remotely)
The highlight for me this week was our group dinner. We are a virtual organization and all of us are used to meeting each other online. What a joy to share a meal together in person! We welcomed Pooja, our new Executive Director, and Elizabeth Ann who just joined us as a new member. Some of us will be around next week, and others will be joining for the second week. - Tina
All of us can be together next week for our two virtual events (see separate invitations for both).
Best greetings from the ICUUW UN Advocacy Committee!