Uniting for Gender Equality: HLPF Conclusions Echo GWL Voices’ Call

The conclusions of the High-Level Political Forum 2024 (see the provisional Ministerial Declaration here) align with the statement from GWL Voices, reinforcing the critical need for the inclusion of women in leadership, policy changes, and financial frameworks to make any progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As our world faced overlapping and multifaceted global challenges—marked by the triple planetary crisis of climate change, extinction, and pollution—there were also escalating polarization, threats to human security, and unprecedented mass displacement worldwide. The HLPF, where governments convened to share progress and challenges in implementing the SDGs, proved vital for fostering international collaboration and accountability.

This year’s forum, theme “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and Eradicating Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises: The Effective Delivery of Sustainable, Resilient, and Innovative Solutions,” underscored the urgency of addressing interconnected issues through coordinated and innovative approaches. Key SDGs under review included no poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), climate action (SDG 13), peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16), and partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). The discussions highlighted how these challenges disproportionately impact women and girls, exacerbating existing inequalities in income, power, exposure to gender-based violence, healthcare access, and digital inclusion.

The recent setbacks and pushback against women’s rights are deeply concerning. The 2023 Gender Social Norms Index revealed that biased social norms against women persisted, hindering gender equality. GWL Voices had urged that women’s rights be at the forefront of global discussions, ensuring that inclusivity and equity were integral to all initiatives.

For sustainable development amidst global crises, GWL Voices had called on world leaders, governments, parliaments, civil society, and multilateral organizations to:

1. Recognize Women and Girls as Key Agents for SDG Implementation:

Gender equality was emphasized as a core component for advancing the 2030 Agenda. Policies and programs were urged to focus on closing gender gaps across all sectors and empowering women and girls.

2. Invest in Women and Girls to Eradicate Poverty:

The forum acknowledged that women were disproportionately affected by poverty, with many living in extreme conditions. Gender-sensitive policies were deemed crucial to addressing these disparities and eradicating poverty.

3. Center Women and Girls in Climate Action:

It was highlighted that climate change disproportionately affected women and girls. Gender-equal participation in climate negotiations and robust social protection systems were considered essential for effective climate action.

4. Empower Indigenous and Rural Women for Sustainable Livelihoods and Food Security:

The critical role of Indigenous and rural women in food security was recognized. Providing them with equal access to resources was seen as key to significantly improving agricultural productivity and food security.

5. Promote Gender-Responsive Budgeting and Investment:

The forum noted the significant lack of investment in women-led organizations. Prioritizing gender-responsive budgeting and investments was viewed as vital for inclusive economic growth.

6. Enhance Gender-Disaggregated Data to Counter Inequalities:

The need for high-quality, gender-disaggregated data to address gender inequalities effectively was emphasized. This included improving data on multidimensional, gender-sensitive poverty.

7. End Violence Against Women to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies:

The forum acknowledged that gender-based violence undermined social progress and equality. Governments were urged to take steps to ensure the safety and security of women.

8. Guarantee Equal Political Leadership and Representation:

Achieving gender parity in political and multilateral roles was deemed essential. The UN was encouraged to prioritize gender equality and women’s rights across all its initiatives.

As we concluded the HLPF, it became clear that the urgency to act on gender equality and women’s empowerment had never been greater. Moving forward, GWL Voices will continue to advocate for women’s and girls’ representation in these fora, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are prioritized in all global initiatives. Together, we will keep pushing for a world where every woman and girl can thrive, free from violence and poverty.