United Nations hosts 70th Commission on the Status of Women

During the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations, international leaders addressed critical gaps in gender equality and justice. For the first time in 70 years, member states failed to reach a consensus on a declaration regarding women's access to justice, necessitating a vote where 37 countries supported the measure and one opposed it.

The African Development Bank highlighted a $42 billion financing gap facing women on the African continent. Dr. Jemimah Njuki, the bank's Director of Gender, Women, and Civil Society, emphasized that investing in women is a strategic necessity for Africa's economic growth and climate resilience.

Representing Cyprus, Commissioner for Gender Equality Josie Christodoulou aligned with the European Union's position, focusing on justice as a foundation for rights. Cyprus is prioritizing the prevention of cyber violence against girls and implementing national reforms, including gender-responsive budgeting and a unified national database to combat violence against women.