GENERAL DEBATE ITEM 3
Joint Statement “Accelerate implementation of the SDGs
to promote gender equality”. Delivered by H.E. Mr. MAI Phan Dung, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the United Nations, WTO and other International Organizations in Geneva
Geneva, 14 March 2025
Mister President,
This year, 2025, marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BDPA), and the 10th anniversary of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. While commendable progress has been achieved in advancing gender equality, we acknowledge that challenges persist. Our efforts have yet to fully realize the vision of gender equality outlined in the BDPA and the 2030 Agenda.
As we collectively endeavor towards achieving the SDGs, it is imperative to recognize that women and girls play an indispensable role in this pursuit. With that in mind, and reaffirming our commitment to the full, effective and accelerated implementation of the BDPA and the 2030 Agenda, we propose the following priorities:
First, ensuring the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and girls across all decision-making spheres, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to political, economic, social, and cultural realms; prioritizing policies aimed at empowering women and girls, particularly those addressing poverty reduction, sustainable livelihood, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and eliminating structural barriers.
Secondly, increasing women’s and girls’ participation and leadership in science, technology, and digital transformation, and implementing policies aimed at closing the digital divide. In this regard, it is crucial to remain vigilant in preventing and combating gender-based discrimination and violence, including in digital spaces.
Thirdly, strengthening women’s and girls' equal participation and full involvement in all peace and security processes, including by increasing their roles in fostering stability and sustainable development, at national, regional, and international levels.
Fourthly, budgeting and capacity building to achieve gender equality in institutions and policies in all countries, including in developing countries. By sharing successful models and fostering collaboration, we can amplify the impact of our efforts to achieve the SDGs.
We strongly believe that accelerating progress towards gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls will protect and promote human rights, and contribute significantly to building a world of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.
I thank you
Co-sponsors
1. Andorra
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Azerbaijan
5. Barbados
6. Belgium
7. Bhutan
8. Brazil
9. Cambodia
10. Cameroon
11. Chile
12. Colombia
13. Costa Rica
14. Croatia
15. Cyprus
16. Czechia
17. Democratic People's Republic of Korea
18. Denmark
19. Ecuador
20. Eritrea
21. Estonia
22. Ethiopia
23. Finland
24. France
25. Germany
26. Greece
27. Hungary
28. Iceland
29. India
30. Ireland
31. Italy
32. Kenya
33. Lao People's Democratic Republic
34. Lithuania
35. Luxembourg
36. Malaysia
37. Maldives
38. Malta
39. Mexico
40. Moldova
41. Mongolia
42. Montenegro
43. Myanmar
44. New Zealand
45. North Macedonia
46. Norway
47. Panama
48. Peru
49. Poland
50. Portugal
51. Republic of Korea
52. Romania
53. Sierra Leon
54. Slovakia
55. Slovenia
56. Spain
57. Sweden
58. Switzerland
59. Thailand
60. The Netherlands
61. The Philippines
62. United Kingdom
63. Uruguay
64. Viet Nam