Historic NAM Women’s Side Event Culminates in Pledge for Gender Equality Advancement

KAMPALA, UGANDA – January 17, 2024

In a landmark gathering held at the Skyz Hotel in Kampala, Uganda, the NAM Women’s Side Event concluded with a resounding proclamation of commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women globally. Participants from Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) countries gathered under the theme “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence,” emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration in realizing an equitable future.

Under the overarching event theme, “Strengthening Women’s Rights and Empowerment in NAM Countries,” delegates recognized both the progress made since the 18th NAM Summit and the persistent challenges hindering comprehensive gender parity and empowerment.

A major highlight of the event was the proposal for the establishment of a women’s platform within the NAM framework in Uganda. This platform aims to provide physical, digital, and structural spaces to track and advance women’s work, ensuring visibility, recognition, and opportunities for collaboration within the movement.

Delegates stressed the importance of inclusive collaboration, committing to sharing best practices and innovative approaches to address pressing issues such as the gender digital divide, girls’ representation, gender-based violence, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. They pledged to bridge the gender digital divide by promoting digital literacy, closing technological infrastructure gaps, and fostering women’s meaningful participation in the digital economy.

Acknowledging the transformative potential of technological advancements, participants pledged to ensure equal access and benefits for women. The commitment extended to promoting girls’ representation in STEM fields, leadership positions, and decision-making processes, with a focus on dismantling barriers and biases impeding progress.

A notable recommendation put forth was the cancellation of the Debt Burden External Debt (DBET) initiative. Delegates firmly believed this decision would impede collective efforts to combat climate change impacts, particularly affecting women and girls. Urgent appeals were made to the international community to demonstrate solidarity and provide financial support for robust climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

The participants urged developed nations to honor their commitments and collaborate with NAM countries to ensure a sustainable and resilient future that upholds the rights and empowerment of all women and girls. The declaration concluded with a call for strengthened commitment to collaboration, sharing success stories, and exemplifying the transformative power of collective action for a more just, inclusive, and prosperous future for women worldwide.

Heartfelt gratitude was extended to the organizers, the Government of Uganda, and all partners for their invaluable contributions to the success of this historic summit. The declaration stands as a testament to the unwavering determination of NAM countries to shape a brighter future for women globally through collective action and collaboration.