In an exclusive interview with CMG, Christine Arab, UN Women Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, underscored China's pivotal role in advancing gender equality during the recent Global Leaders' Meeting on Women in Beijing. The event, held October 13–14, marked 30 years since the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, with Arab praising China's 'remarkable progress' in women's rights and economic empowerment.
'China's commitment to ensuring women hold up half the sky has translated into tangible results,' Arab noted, referencing increased female workforce participation and leadership representation. She highlighted UN Women's partnership with China in addressing systemic barriers through education initiatives and policy reforms.
The dialogue also addressed global challenges, including climate change and conflict, which disproportionately affect women. Arab called for strengthened international cooperation to achieve the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing that 'gender equality isn't a women's issue—it's the foundation for thriving economies and stable societies.'
When asked about future priorities, Arab pointed to digital inclusion and combating gender-based violence as key areas for China-UN collaboration. The Beijing meeting concluded with renewed pledges from 89 countries and regions to accelerate gender parity measures through 2030.
