UNDEF Partners Round Table Sparks Global Collaboration for Gender Equity

Photo credit: UN Partnerships/Mahri Eyeberdiyeva

In a dynamic gathering coinciding with the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68), the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) hosted a round table bringing together a diverse cohort of civil society partners dedicated to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment on a global scale.

Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office for Partnerships, set the tone in her opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of uniting current and former UNDEF partners as an opportunity for learning exchange, networking and to strengthen the UNDEF network as a community of practice. She underscored the pivotal role of these organizations in promoting women's leadership—a cornerstone of good governance.

The gathering provided a platform for seventeen civil society organizations to exchange experiences, successes, and challenges in advancing gender equality. Discussions encompassed a wide range of topics, including actions to protect and promote civic space, gender-responsive budgeting, climate action, fundraising, and ways to strengthen the civil society voice in global advocacy. The participants expressed a steadfast commitment to supporting crises, protecting human rights organizations, and amplifying the voices of vulnerable groups.

Key initiatives emerged from the meeting, including the presentation of the We the Women global survey, aimed at gathering women's opinions for the Summit of the Future. Participants were encouraged to promote the survey within their networks to ensure diverse perspectives are included in global discussions.

Moreover, plans were laid for a virtual gathering to share experiences and case studies related to gender-responsive budgeting. This initiative seeks to empower grassroots organizations with practical tools and insights for sustainable impact.

The meeting highlighted the pressing need to balance visibility with online safety for organizations, particularly in the face of shrinking civic space and safety concerns for journalists. Participants emphasized the importance of fostering connections and providing support in challenging contexts.

The discussions and collaborative spirit witnessed at the UNDEF Partners Round Table underscore the collective resolve to drive momentum for gender equality and women's empowerment.