Madam Chair, 

Excellencies, 

Dear friends,

Celebrating the amazing successes achieved over the last 30 years in this region, in the pursuit of gender equality, is of-course an important exercise. Sadly, however, time is not on our side - and all of us have an even greater responsibility to focus on the work ahead. For far too many communities and vulnerable populations, the idea of equality or equity is not on their radar. For far too many women and girls, the gains we champion are not yet felt. 

Significant inequalities and vulnerabilities persist, particularly when it comes to sexual and reproductive health and rights. 

Yes, maternal mortality rates have dropped, but are now stagnated. Women are still losing their lives during childbirth at alarming rates. Family planning access has increased, yet bodily autonomy is still neither understood by, nor afforded to, millions of girls and women across the region.  In some countries, fewer than 30 percent of women of reproductive age have access to contraception, and adolescent pregnancy rates have stagnated in several countries. 

From puberty to menopause, there remains too much shame and stigma. And whether pregnant once or never, there remains under-investment in the design and access to technological healthcare advancements for women. These shortfalls have real-life implications. 

Every woman here knows what I’m talking about: an unexpected lump, an abnormal pap smear, an infection or a blockage, all of which could be early signs of a variety of life-threatening cancers.

Beyond their bodies, gender discrimination continues. Unemployment rates among young women remain high, and women continue to face barriers to political participation. The prevalence of violence and harmful practices against women and girls remains unacceptably high. And another layer of threat and injustice faces many women and girls through the menace of technology-facilitated GBV. 

Excellencies,

While we work tirelessly to tackle these issues, including with men and boys, the context in which we operate is shifting dramatically. The world is now warming at an alarming rate and significant demographic shifts are taking place. 

Not only do we need to accelerate the overdue realization of gender equality and women’s empowerment, we must also do so while adjusting to these megatrends. It is critical for countries and communities to collectively develop and implement strategies based on human-rights, policies that are comprehensive and forward-thinking, and investments that are gender-sensitive and sustainably financed. 

Sustained political and financial support from governments and partners will make the difference. A mother’s life should never be jeopardized due to political decisions. In a region where 8 women die every hour from preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related causes, this is not the time to deprioritize gender equality. 

This is not only a moral imperative; it is also the smart choice. Studies show that closing gender gaps in employment can significantly boost GDP. 

In conclusion, let’s remember: when SHE is free from violence and empowered to reach HER full potential, SHE becomes a transformative force, driving education, economic growth, and social progress for all.

I therefore call on all partners – governments, civil society, international financial institutions, faith communities and private sector leaders – to continue developing and investing in a resilient, gender-equal future. 

UNFPA remains steadfast in our leadership role on these issues. Together, let us continue working to create a future where gender equality is realized, and all women and girls can thrive and reach their potential. 

Thank you.