Baku – The Non-Aligned Movement Conference on Advancing the Rights and Empowerment of Women concluded its first day in Baku with the adoption of a comprehensive declaration. This pivotal document, as reported by APA, reflects the collective commitment of the member states to furthering the agenda of women’s rights and empowerment.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the member states of the Non-Aligned Movement, co-organized by Azerbaijan, Uganda, and Uzbekistan, emphasized several key commitments and acknowledgments. These include the advancement of human rights and empowerment of women as a central vision for the NAM, the importance of women’s equal participation in all societal facets, and the recognition of the increasing representation of women in political positions across NAM member states.

The declaration also reiterates the commitment to combating violence against women, stressing the role of men and boys in this endeavor. It highlights the vital role of women in sustainable development, ensuring their equal opportunities for leadership. The detrimental impact of unilateral coercive measures on women and girls, particularly regarding their well-being and human rights, was recognized, with a call for their repeal.

The declaration applauds the inclusion of gender equality and empowerment goals in the 2030 Development Agenda and welcomes progress made in implementing the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. It emphasizes the importance of intensifying exchange among NAM Member States on challenges related to women’s advancement and rights.

A significant proposal noted in the declaration is the establishment of the NAM Women Platform, with the NAM Coordinating Bureau deliberating on this initiative. Finally, the declaration expresses gratitude to the Republic of Azerbaijan for hosting the first-ever NAM Conference on this critical issue on November 20-21, 2023.