The Network of Women Leaders and Development (RFLD) is firmly committed to gender equality and the empowerment of women, particularly in the context of French-speaking West Africa.
In preparation for CSW 69 (Commission on the Status of Women), which will take place in New York from March 10 to 21, 2025, the RFLD is organizing a regional event titled “Francophone Regional Dialogue Beijing +30: Reflections and Actions for Gender Equality in French-speaking West Africa” in February 2025.
- Francophone Regional Dialogue Beijing +30
The Beijing Conference of 1995 was a historic turning point in the struggle for gender equality. Thirty years later, it is crucial to evaluate the progress made and identify the challenges that remain. The Francophone Regional Dialogue aims to bring together leaders, activists, and experts from West Africa to discuss advances and obstacles to gender equality in the region. The primary objectives of this event include assessing progress made, sharing experiences, and formulating concrete recommendations that will be presented at CSW 69.
The dialogue will include discussion panels, interactive workshops, and networking sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in workshops on key themes such as women’s economic empowerment, gender-based violence, and sexual and reproductive rights. They will also be able to exchange insights with experts on best practices and effective policies implemented in other countries. Additionally, a report will be drafted to summarize the discussions and formulated recommendations, serving as a basis for deliberations in New York.
- RFLD Delegation to New York
The RFLD delegation, consisting of two members, will participate in CSW activities in New York. This diversity will ensure that voices, particularly those from marginalized communities, are heard.
CSW 69 will focus on the theme of gender equality and the empowerment of women within the framework of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). The RFLD delegation will participate in several round tables and parallel events, where experts, activists, and representatives from organizations will discuss key issues.
The round tables will include an evaluation of the 30 years since the Beijing Conference, focusing on the progress made in gender equality since 1995. The RFLD delegation will provide regional perspectives, highlighting successes and specific challenges in West Africa. Another round table will be dedicated to women’s economic empowerment, discussing initiatives aimed at improving women’s access to economic resources. The RFLD will share examples of successful programs that support women entrepreneurs in the region.
A session will also address gender-based violence, discussing necessary measures to prevent and address this phenomenon. The delegation will actively participate in discussions on best practices and protection policies. Finally, the RFLD will emphasize the importance of ensuring access to reproductive health care for all women, proposing recommendations based on the specific needs of the region.
In addition to the round tables, the RFLD delegation will engage in advocacy activities aimed at influencing decision-makers and promoting policies favorable to gender equality. This will include meetings with government officials and representatives from international organizations to discuss the recommendations formulated during the Francophone Regional Dialogue. The delegation will also participate in parallel events organized by other NGOs and civil society groups to strengthen synergies and share experiences.
The RFLD’s participation in CSW 69 represents a unique opportunity to amplify the voices of women from West Africa at the international level. Through the Francophone Regional Dialogue Beijing +30, the RFLD is committed to assessing progress made and formulating concrete recommendations for the future. By mobilizing women leaders and activists, this initiative will contribute to creating constructive dialogue and promoting meaningful actions for gender equality.
In summary, the RFLD is determined to make the voices of women from West Africa heard in New York, highlighting their experiences and advocating for sustainable changes that will benefit all women and girls in the region.
