Carol Bellamy Takes the Lead: GWL Voices Drives Gender-Responsive Financial Reform Ahead of FfD4

As the global community prepares for the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Sevilla, Spain this June, GWL Voices remains at the forefront of critical discussions on financial reform, gender equality, and global economic governance.

Ms. Carol Bellamy, a distinguished GWL Voices member and former Executive Director of UNICEF, is actively participating in the Third preparatory meeting in New York, leading up to the conference this week, ensuring that gender-responsive financial reform is central to the discussions. Her engagement in these dialogues highlights GWL Voices’ commitment to UN reform from a women’s perspective, with a strong emphasis on transforming the international financial architecture to advance gender equality and sustainable development. The Role of FfD4: A Pivotal Moment for Financial Reform

The Financing for Development (FfD) process presents a unique opportunity to reshape global financial systems and create the necessary policy and fiscal space for developing countries to finance their own sustainable development. Unlike a pledging or fundraising initiative, FfD4 provides a golden opportunity to discuss global economic governance making it a crucial platform for advocating systemic change.

Women at the Center of Financial Reform

The current 3rd PrepCom Session sets the stage for the Seville conference, bringing together policymakers, financial institutions, and civil society organizations to refine the agenda and discuss transformative financial solutions. From a gender lens, financial reform must address systemic inequalities that hinder women’s economic empowerment. For example, by promoting gender-responsive solutions to the challenge of climate change.

What to Expect at the 3rd PrepCom Session

The 3rd PrepCom, a critical milestone in the lead-up to FfD4, features plenary hearings, a high-level ministerial segment, and a paragraph-by-paragraph review of the zero draft outcome document. While no direct language edits will be made, this session shapes the ideas and substance of the final agreement in Seville.

Despite increasing challenges, GWL Voices continues to advocate for a financing system that works for women and by women, ensuring that gender equality is not just an afterthought but a strategic pillar in global financial governance.

Looking Ahead to Seville

The upcoming FfD4 Conference in June represents a pivotal opportunity to push for inclusive and rights-based financial reform. Ensuring gender equality remains at the heart of these discussions is not just a moral imperative—it is an economic necessity. By championing reforms that prioritize women’s financial empowerment, gender-responsive climate finance, fair taxation, and sustainable development, GWL Voices shapes a more equitable global financial future.

Stay tuned for more updates on GWL Voices’ participation in these crucial meetings as we work towards a more just and inclusive financial system for all.