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Join Us for the NGO Forum at the 59th Session of the Human Rights Council

The NGO Committee on the Status of Women, Geneva, is proud to host an impactful NGO Forum as part of the 59th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC59). This event offers a vital opportunity for committee members, civil society actors, and human rights advocates to come together, engage, and contribute to global conversations on gender equality and the empowerment of women.

Taking place at CAGI – Grand Salon, Maison de Maître, La Pastorale (Rte de Ferney 106, 1202 Genève), the day is structured to foster both networking and knowledge-sharing through a series of events organized by our member organizations. These sessions are designed to spotlight pressing issues and inspire collaborative action.

This year’s forum also commemorates International Widows Day, recognizing the voices, experiences, and resilience of widows around the world—many of whom continue to face systemic human rights violations and social marginalization.

Key themes to be explored include:

Feminism and Faith: Human Rights Defenders – Navigating the intersection of religious belief and feminist advocacy.

Literacy and Empowerment – Emphasizing the role of education in unlocking opportunities and ensuring dignity for women globally.

Challenges and Triumphs of Widows Worldwide – Highlighting the socio-cultural and legal hurdles faced by widows, and honoring their strength and achievements.

We welcome the participation of NGOs, human rights defenders, gender advocates, faith-based organizations, and all individuals committed to the advancement of women’s rights and social justice. Your voice and expertise are vital as we work together to shape inclusive, rights-based solutions.

Let’s amplify each other’s efforts and reaffirm our shared commitment to human dignity, equality, and empowerment for all women.

Empowering Widows Through Literacy: A Human Rights Conversation

In recognition of International Widows Day, Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative (SLNI), in collaboration with partner organizations, is honored to host a vital event aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by widows globally, while celebrating their strength, resilience, and contributions to society.

Proclaimed by the United Nations in 2011, International Widows Day seeks to raise awareness about the systemic discrimination, isolation, and economic hardship that affect millions of widows worldwide. This year’s event focuses on women’s literacy as a transformative tool—a foundation for empowerment, advocacy, and the full realization of human rights.

Through thought-provoking discussions and shared experiences, this gathering will explore how access to literacy and education enables widows and other marginalized women to become active agents of change in their communities. It will also highlight the urgent need for inclusive policies and supportive networks that affirm their dignity and rights at every stage of life.

SLNI extends deep appreciation to its partners and stakeholders for their continued efforts in defending the rights of widows and advocating for gender equity. We believe that prioritizing literacy is not only a step toward inclusion—it is a pathway to sustainable development and social justice.