Amidst global challenges and the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the G20 Ministerial Conference on Women’s Empowerment, under the esteemed G20 Indian Presidency, is set to convene in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from August 2nd to 4th, 2023. Chaired by Union Minister of Women & Child Development Smriti Zubin Irani, the conference holds the theme “Women-led Inclusive Development as Cusp of Inter-Generational Transformation.”
FOSTERING GENDER EQUALITY AMIDST GLOBAL CHALLENGES
As the world faces challenges posed by climate change, uneven pandemic recovery, and insufficient progress towards SDGs, the G20 Ministerial Conference focuses on women-led development as a catalyst for achieving Gender Equality and SDG: Goal 5.
GLOBAL PARTICIPATION AND PRIME MINISTER’S ADDRESS
Over 150 delegates, led by Heads of Delegations from G20 member nations, invitee countries, and International Organisations (IOs), will partake in the three-day Ministerial meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver a special video address, highlighting the significance of women’s empowerment.
Priority Areas for Empowerment
Thematic discussions during the event will emphasize key priority areas, including Education as a Game-changing Pathway, Women’s Entrepreneurship as a Win-win for Equity and Economy, Promoting Women’s Leadership at all Levels, Women and Girls as Change-makers in Climate Resilience Action, and Digital Skilling for Women’s Empowerment. The outcomes of these discussions will be reflected in the Chair’s Summary and submitted as recommendations to G20 leaders.
COLLABORATION FOR GENDER EQUALITY
In a joint effort with Asian Development Bank (ADB), UN Women, and NIPCCD, the Ministry of Women & Child Development will organize a side event to identify actions and policy levers addressing fiscal policies, gender equality in the care economy, and climate change challenges.
CELEBRATING INDIAN WOMEN’S CONTRIBUTIONS
A remarkable exhibition on the theme “India @ 75: Contribution of Women” will showcase outstanding achievements in Crafts, Nutrition & Food, Health, STEM, Education & Skilling, and Trade & Economy.
EMBRACING CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Cultural programs, musical performances by ‘Shillong Chamber Choir’ and ‘Drums of India,’ along with dance performances and a showcase by Children from BalBhavan, will immerse participants in India’s rich cultural heritage.
CULINARY DELIGHTS AND EXCURSIONS
To celebrate the International Year of Millets, delegates will savour local cuisine and millet-based food. Excursions have been thoughtfully planned to allow attendees to explore Gujarat’s vibrant historical heritage.
INDIA’S TRANSITION TO WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT
India is undergoing significant transformation, shifting from women’s development to women-led development, driven by the firm belief that gender should never define potential.
The G20 Ministerial Conference on Women’s Empowerment serves as a beacon of hope, fostering women-led development and empowering women worldwide. Building on the efforts of previous G20 presidencies, the conference under India’s Presidency aims to enhance G20’s commitment to accelerate progress towards women’s empowerment, removing obstacles, and paving the way for a more inclusive world.
