In a virtual panel organized as part of the CSW69 event, youth leaders gathered to reflect on the progress made in advancing gender equality since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995. The event focused on reviewing the challenges, gaps, and emerging issues from the youth perspective, and generating recommendations for strengthening youth involvement in gender equality advocacy and policy-making. Esteemed speakers and Panelists discussed the role of young people in leading change and driving sustainable progress for gender equality, social justice, and inclusion.
Key Discussions
Opening Remark: The event began with a welcome address from moderator Emmanuel Iteji, who introduced Mrs. Wunmi, the representative of Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative. She provided an insightful overview of the organization and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, explaining its ongoing relevance to youth and gender equality movements and stressing the need for continued commitment to advancing these goals.
Katherine Igiezele:
· Digital Divide and Access: The digital divide affecting girls is due to cultural and social barriers, such as biases that restrict women to specific fields, and limited access to affordable digital tools. Traditional education systems need to be reviewed to close these gaps.
Emmanuel Zakari:
· Inclusive Climate Policy: Community led initiatives should prioritize women’s perspectives in climate policy-making. Policies need to incorporate gender-sensitive approaches and support capacity building programs for women to enhance their leadership and technical skills in addressing climate change.
Aisha Ushata:
· Community driven Health Initiatives: Models like maternity waiting homes in underserved areas have been effective in reducing maternal mortality, demonstrating how community driven health initiatives can be adapted for broader impact.
Segun Daniel:
· Youth-led Movement in Policymaking: Youth-led movements are advocating for a holistic approach to policymaking that connects gender, climate change, economic inequality, and social justice. Technology plays a key role in amplifying marginalized voices through social media, online petitions, and digital campaigns, helping to ensure inclusive decision-making in gender equality and sustainable development policies.
