India at the UN: Strengthening Women’s Rights at CSW 69

Context

• The Union Minister for Women and Child Development will lead India’s delegation at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
• The CSW is one of the most significant global platforms dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women.
• India's participation reflects its commitment to women’s rights, policy discussions, and international cooperation on gender issues.

About the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

• The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is a global intergovernmental body focused exclusively on promoting gender equality and empowering women.
• It operates as a functional commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• The CSW works to advance women’s political, economic, civil, social, and educational rights worldwide.
• It also highlights urgent global issues, such as the impact of conflict on women and girls.

Historical Background

• Established: 21 June 1946, by a resolution of ECOSOC.
• In 1996, ECOSOC expanded CSW’s mandate, making it responsible for:
  • Monitoring and reviewing the progress of gender equality.
  • Overseeing the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
  • Mainstreaming gender perspectives into UN activities.

Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action

• Adopted in 1995 by 189 countries, it remains the most comprehensive global agenda for gender equality.
• It sets forth strategic objectives and concrete actions to advance women's rights and ensure their full participation in all aspects of society.

Annual Sessions of CSW

• The CSW meets annually for two weeks at the UN headquarters in New York.
• Participants include representatives from UN member states, civil society organizations, and UN entities.
• Discussions focus on:
  • Reviewing progress and gaps in implementing the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
  • Assessing emerging gender-related issues.
  • Formulating policy recommendations to accelerate gender equality and women’s empowerment.
• The outcomes and recommendations of the CSW session are forwarded to ECOSOC for further action and implementation.

Significance of India's Participation

• India is actively engaged in global discussions on gender equality and women's rights.
• The country has undertaken several policy initiatives, including Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ujjwala Yojana, and Mission Shakti, to promote women’s empowerment.
• India’s leadership at CSW 69 reinforces its commitment to advancing gender-responsive policies and strengthening international cooperation on women’s rights and development.