Reflections on the High-Level Meeting on Progress in the Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action after Thirty Years in the Arab Region
On December 9, 2024, I had the privilege of attending the High-Level Regional Meeting in Muscat, Oman to mark 30 years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which was organized by the ESCWA, UN-Women, and the League of Arab States. This event brought together stakeholders from across the region to discuss progress, challenges, and opportunities in advancing gender equality. As a representative of the Your Voice Initiative, a WOSSO Fellow, and a member of the Arab States CSOs and Feminists Network, this meeting was my first high-level experience and it did prove to be an invaluable experience for learning, exchanging ideas, and building connections.
The meeting underscored the interconnected challenges faced by women in the region, particularly in addressing violence against women and enhancing economic participation. With a pay gap of 20 to 30 percent, 34% of women in the region suffer from poverty, and only 30% of them benefit from protection services.
A significant focus was placed on the meaningful participation of youth, recognized as one of UN Women’s 6+1 priorities. This emphasis resonated deeply with me, as it reflects a growing understanding of the transformative potential of youth-led advocacy in driving systemic change. The discussions further highlighted the importance of intergenerational collaboration, creating spaces for young feminists to work alongside established leaders, and integrating youth perspectives into global and regional frameworks.
This meeting offered practical insights to strengthen my advocacy work within WOSSO. The prioritization of ending violence against women, with SRHR at its core, aligns closely with my current advocacy focus. Understanding the narratives and strategies of key entities like UN ESCWA and UN Women has provided me with a clearer perspective on where and how to position my efforts for maximum impact.
What surprised me most was the level of alignment and synergy among stakeholders despite the region’s diversity. The shared commitment to advancing gender equality through practical tools and action plans demonstrated the collective power of collaboration. The emphasis on underrepresented groups, such as women with disabilities, was particularly impactful and is a priority I am eager to integrate into my research as I plan to not only explore how CSE can be gender-sensitive but also accessible and useful for people with disabilities and other marginalized groups as well as their families.
This meeting was more than just a discussion; it was a call to action. It reaffirmed the importance of regional solidarity and intergenerational collaboration in achieving the Beijing Declaration’s vision. The insights and connections gained will serve as a cornerstone for my advocacy work, not only within the WOSSO Fellowship but also in my broader efforts to advance gender equality and SRHR in the region.
As I reflect on this experience, I am both inspired by the collective determination to create meaningful change and sceptical about the reality and inclusivity of the tangible opportunities for collaboration that emerged from this gathering.
(Written by Yasmine Aburaya, a WOSSO Fellow)