Amid a global surge of challenges to gender justice, Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, has called for reinforced resistance against these setbacks during her speech at the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70). This year’s session, taking place from March 9 to 19 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, provides a critical platform for addressing the rollback of gender equality initiatives worldwide.
Callamard highlighted escalating restrictions that impede women human rights defenders and feminist organizations from participating in international forums. Such actions underscore a broader backlash against achievements in gender equality, a topic that is central to discussions at CSW70. The commission’s priority theme emphasizes strengthening access to justice for all women and girls through reforming discriminatory laws and eliminating structural barriers.
In a comprehensive appeal, Amnesty International urged states to identify and combat forces undermining gender justice, with a focus on preserving accountability mechanisms from undue influence. A new briefing from Amnesty illustrates growing solidarity and resistance among feminist movements and community organizers, who are fervently advocating for transformative, survivor-centered justice that aligns with human rights principles. This sentiment was mirrored in Callamard’s call to action against increased gender-based violence and reproductive rights threats.
The CSW70 session gathers stakeholders including member states, UN entities, and civil society leaders to develop policy recommendations on gender equality. The agenda features ministerial roundtables and addresses diverse issues such as women’s judicial participation and responses to conflict-related sexual violence. These discussions are pivotal in driving the momentum for a potential Convention on Crimes Against Humanity.
Amnesty International perceives CSW70 as a significant opportunity for consolidated resistance against organized efforts to diminish gender equality norms. The organization’s advocacy resonates with broader UN initiatives aimed at dismantling discriminatory barriers and fostering equitable justice systems.
As discussions progress, the unified voice of CSW70 aims to reinforce global commitments toward sustaining and expanding the gains made in gender justice. The collective efforts of international and grassroots groups are vital in navigating the complexities of these ongoing challenges.