The 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69)—the leading global intergovernmental body dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women—took place from March 10 to 21, 2025, at UN Headquarters in New York. This year’s session centered on the review and appraisal of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark agenda adopted in 1995 that remains the most transformative framework for advancing gender equality worldwide.
Over the past three decades, significant strides have been made. More women and girls than ever before have gained the right to vote, to work, and to lead. Girls' education has reached historic levels, and legal protections against domestic violence—once in place in only 12 countries—are now far more widespread. A bold, youth-led movement has emerged, demanding justice, equal rights, and empowerment for all.
Yet, despite these achievements, progress remains uneven and alarmingly fragile. Ahead of CSW69, UN Women released a stark report revealing that one in four countries has seen a rollback in women’s rights, with increasing levels of discrimination and eroding legal safeguards. This troubling trend cast a shadow over the session and ignited a renewed sense of urgency and solidarity among participants.
Throughout the two-week gathering, a powerful momentum built across official discussions and vibrant parallel events. Civil society actors, women’s rights advocates, and government delegates came together to call for bold action. A key focus was the urgent need to advance an Optional Protocol on gender-based violence, aimed at strengthening global accountability and justice mechanisms.
The atmosphere at CSW69 was one of resolve and inspiration. Civil society’s vital contributions were not only recognized but celebrated. The enduring impact of international instruments such as CEDAW and the Beijing Platform for Action stood as a testament to the power of collective advocacy.
Today, the global movement for gender equality is as determined as ever. As women and girls continue to face violence, discrimination, and inequality, CSW69 reaffirmed the commitment to building a world where gender justice is not an aspiration—but a reality.
Read the Political Declaration adopted by Member States at CSW69
