On 15–19 March, Minister for Gender Equality Märta Stenevi will take part digitally in the sixty-fifth session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW65). The priority theme is women’s opportunities for participation and decision-making in public life, and the elimination of violence against women.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed inequalities and also increased the gap between women and men. It is therefore more important than ever to consistently have a gender perspective when we rebuild a society that is stronger and more sustainable than before the crisis.
– I look forward to representing Sweden at the CSW65 in these challenging times and welcome this year’s priority theme. Women’s empowerment and participation, and the elimination of violence against women, are priority issues for the Swedish Government. This is in line with Sweden’s interim objectives of an even division of power and influence, and ending men’s violence against women, says Ms Stenevi.
Ms Stenevi will give an opening address at two side events hosted by Sweden. Tuesday’s side event will focus on rights and sexuality education, and Wednesday’s event will focus on strengthening economic gender equality.
Ms Stenevi will also take part in a Nordic ministerial meeting together with UN Women’s Executive Director, with focus on involving young people in gender equality efforts.
Ms Stenevi will lead the Swedish delegation that, in addition to representatives from the Government, comprises representatives from government agencies, the Riksdag, civil society organisations and the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions.
– This year, twelve civil society organisations will be part of the Swedish delegation, which is considerably more than usual and very gratifying. We place great value on civil society’s engagement, says Ms Stenevi.
State Secretary Karin Strandås will also take part in CSW65, and will speak at a side event on the Istanbul Convention and how it has helped strengthen Sweden’s efforts to combat men’s violence against women.
