Parallel event at the Commission on the Status of Women, CSW69 / Beijing+30
In celebration of International Women’s Day and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, young FoRB Fellows from every region discussed the challenges women from religious minorities face in exercising their freedom of religion or belief (FoRB). This panel explored innovative strategies to combat discrimination and violence, mobilize communities, and influence policymakers. With expert insights and a call to action, this event presented a unique opportunity to shape the future of gender equality and religious freedom.
Co-sponsored by the UN Mission of Norway, the FoRB Women’s Alliance, the First Freedom Foundation’s FoRB Fellows, and the Web Platform 4 Dialogue.
Women from religious minorities face violence and discrimination simply because of their faith—limiting their rights, deepening inequalities, and restricting their freedoms.
Young FoRB defenders discussed how to tackle this urgent issue, exploring how cultural norms, systemic barriers, and intersecting identities shape these challenges—and how Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) can drive gender equality and human rights.
✅ Highlighting tthe role of FoRB in protecting women’s rights
✅ Powerful testimonies and bold strategies from global advocates
✅ Honoring the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, reaffirming the global commitment to gender equality
Watch a recording of the event here.
Sponsored By
CSW 69 and the Legacy of Beijing: A Key Space for Women’s Rights
The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 69) is the UN’s primary forum dedicated to promoting gender equality and women’s rights. This year, marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, CSW 69 will focus its review on strengthening institutions for gender equality and women’s empowerment. This space is crucial as it brings together governments, civil society, and international organizations to assess progress, identify challenges, and adopt commitments that advance the global women’s rights agenda, ensuring their inclusion in sustainable development policies.