At the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, held in New York from March 9 to 13, Greece presented its positions and initiatives on gender equality, the empowerment of women, and the promotion of a more inclusive society for all.
Greece was represented by the Secretary General for Equality and Human Rights of the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family, Katerina Patsogianni, who participated in six thematic events and high-level meetings, highlighting policies that promote equality, social justice, and the protection of the rights of women and girls.
During an event organized by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Club de Madrid, the issue of political violence against women was highlighted. It was emphasized that the targeting of women participating in political life constitutes a threat to democracy and equal representation.
Special mention was also made of empowering older women and promoting active aging. Policies were presented that allow female retirees to remain active in the labor market without losing their pensions, as well as initiatives that strengthen community care and the digital skills of older women.
The importance of lifelong learning and safe participation in the digital world was highlighted at an event organized by Soroptimist International. It was emphasized that digital learning environments must be accessible, safe, and free from sexist harassment in order to promote women’s equal participation.
The fight against gender-based violence was also a central topic of discussion. Initiatives were presented to strengthen the legislative framework, expand the Panic Button, and implement economic empowerment programs for women who have experienced abuse, with the aim of facilitating their social and professional reintegration.
The need to protect girls in the digital space was also discussed, with an emphasis on addressing digital coercion and the illegal sharing of personal content. The message was clear: no girl should be forced to choose between her online presence and her personal safety.
At the same time, the Greek delegation expressed its solidarity with the women of Afghanistan, condemning the institutional discrimination imposed by the Taliban regime and emphasizing the need to restore women’s access to education, work, and justice.
On the sidelines of the Summit, bilateral meetings were also held with prominent figures from the international community, including former Chilean President and international political figure Michelle Bachelet, as well as Andriani Kostopoulou, Chair of the Council of Europe’s GREVIO Committee.
Greece’s participation in the Summit highlighted the importance of international cooperation in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, reaffirming that the empowerment of women is a key pillar for a more just and sustainable society
