By: Deborah Akech Kuocnin Manyiel, Nalafem Fellow, South Sudan.
The 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), held from March 11-22, 2025, in New York City, was a remarkable testament to the power and resilience of women worldwide. Under the theme “Advancing Gender Equality: 30 Years Since the Beijing Platform for Action.”
The first significant event I attended was the event took place at Columbia University and where there was a gathering of extraordinary minds and influential women leaders committed to driving meaningful change.
Being in the same room with Secretary Hillary Clinton and other high-profile women leaders was profoundly inspiring. They shared their insights and experiences, reflecting on the progress made since the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995. Their stories of perseverance and leadership serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the strides made over the last three decades, emphasizing the importance of continued effort to achieve true gender equality. The women leaders who were panelists alongside Secretary Hillary Clinton were among others President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia and President Barchelet, former President of Chile.
Another significant highlight of the conference was “Sudan Solidarity Night” organized by Nalafem Collective in collaboration with the New York University. This event provided a poignant platform to express our unwavering support for women in Sudan, who endure unimaginable hardships as victims of a war not of their making. It was a night filled with emotion and determination, reinforcing our collective responsibility to advocate for their rights and amplify their voices within the African continent and on the global stage.
The Nalafem team, with whom I proudly collaborate, had the honor of meeting Ambassador Fatima, the African Union’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Our bilateral discussions were crucial in fostering international cooperation to address gender inequities. Ambassador Fatima’s perspective was invaluable, offering profound insights into strategies for amplifying women’s voices in international policy-making and ensuring their rights are integrally protected. She emphasized the importance of South Sudan and Sudan women working together given our shared history of struggles.
Moreover, representing the Nalafem Collective as a panelist in an event organized by Global Action for Care was a profound experience. The panel delved into how feminist movements have significantly influenced caregiving discussions, highlighting the essential role these movements play in redefining caregiving as a critical component of gender equality. It was an eye-opening exchange of ideas on how to better support caregivers, predominantly women, and recognize their vital contributions to society.
In addition to my primary engagements, I have also attended several significant side events that have enriched my understanding and appreciation of women empowerment. These experiences have provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities women face, strengthening my commitment to advocating for gender equality.
CSW69, with its vibrant discussions and strategic collaborations, was more than a conference; it was a necessary dialogue pushing us toward a more equitable future. As we move forward, inspired by the formidable women who have paved the way, we are reminded of the vital work still to be done and our collective power to reshape the narrative for generations to come. This event was a powerful call to action, one that I was honored to be a part of.
