Statement at UN-Women Executive Board Second Regular Session 2024 (10-11 September 2024) by the Republic of Latvia
New York, 10 September 2024
Mister President, Madam Executive Director, dear colleagues,
Let me start with congratulating the newly elected President from Panama and also the Vice-President from Poland. I all the bureau members steadfast resilience and all the best in their roles. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to UN Women and Executive Director Sima Bahous for your tireless dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering women globally. You and your team can always count on our continued support as well as our backing for the UN Women’s triple mandate.
Today, I will focus on the vital role of UN Women, the challenges we must confront, and Latvia's ongoing contributions to advancing gender equality.
First, let me acknowledge the importance of the report on the Structured Dialogue on Financing the Results of the UN-Women Strategic Plan 2022–2025. This report highlights the substantial progress made but also sheds light on the areas that require continued focus and effort. And here I would like to echo the questions asked by the representative of Denmark about the mobilization of core financing.
Financing for gender equality is crucial, especially given the stalled progress on 85% of Sustainable Development Goal 5 indicators. We must leverage milestones like the Summit of the Future and Beijing+30 to accelerate progress.
Second, allow me to commend the report on the recent UN-Women Executive Board's visit to Moldova and Ukraine. The impact of UN-Women's work in these countries is particularly notable amid Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Through partnerships Latvia has established rehabilitation facilities in Ukraine to support survivors of sexual violence perpetrated by the Russian military.
Conflicts and crises disproportionately impact women. Despite the significant challenges involved, UN Women is providing invaluable support in the most vulnerable conditions, including Sudan, Gaza, Afghanistan, Haiti, Myanmar, the Sahel, and the DRC. By embracing the “Women, Peace, and Security” agenda, we create opportunities for collaboration and reinforce our call for protecting all civilians, especially women and girls.
Third, at a time when multilateral values are being challenged, it is crucial to stand up for the protection of gender equality and the empowerment of women. For Latvia, it has been a longstanding priority.
As an important Latvia’s initiative, I would like to highlight "She Rebuilds the World" project that has enhanced the entrepreneurial and leadership skills of women in Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This year, we are expanding these efforts to include Rwanda and Ethiopia.
Additionally, we have been committed to supporting women in STEM fields in South Africa, Cameroon, and Egypt through initiatives led by Riga TechGirls. These projects empower women and girls while contributing to broader sustainable development and economic growth.
Mister President, Madam Executive Director,
In conclusion, Latvia is dedicated to advancing gender equality through both financial support and our expertise. We remain committed to the Strategic Plan through 2025 and developing the plan for 2026–2029 as an active member of the UN Women Executive Board.
Thank you!