Annual EU at CSW Reception brings together leading voices on gender equality

Every year, this is a crucial moment for all leading voices on gender equality – from ministers to civil society, from ambassadors to youth representatives and activists – to unite here in New York with a shared commitment and a strong ambition to spark action to make real, tangible, collective progress towards gender equality, the empowerment of all women and girls and upholding their human rights. 

~H.E. Ambassador Hedda Samson, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., European Union Delegation to the United Nations

As the global push back against women’s and girls’ rights intensifies, the 70th Commission on the Status of Women provides an opportunity for renewed resolve. On this occasion, the EU reaffirmed its dedication to championing gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls to reach their full potential. Earlier in the week, the contentious adoption of the Agreed Conclusions for CSW70, underscored the difficulty of the work ahead and the value of multilateralism in achieving progress.

Opening the event, EU Ambassador Hedda Samson, Chargé d’Affaires of the European Union Delegation to the United Nations, welcomed the distinguished guests, emphasising the collective drive to make significant strides towards gender equality. Joining her were co-host Ambassador Maria Michail, Permanent Representative of Cyprus, and H.E. Ms. Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, and H.E. Ms. Josie Christodoulou, Commissioner for Gender Equality of the Republic of Cyprus. 

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Samson highlighted the evening’s significance and the goal of igniting ambitions into actions:

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**Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Hedda Samson, Chargé d’Affaires:**

Distinguished Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my greatest pleasure to welcome you here at the EU Delegation for this reception on the occasion of the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women that we are hosting together with the Cyprus Presidency of the European Union. 

Every year, this is a crucial moment for all leading voices on gender equality – from ministers to civil society, from ambassadors to youth representatives and activists – to unite here in New York with a shared commitment and a strong ambition to spark action to make real, tangible, collective progress towards gender equality, the empowerment of all women and girls and upholding their human rights.

2026 is a year when fundamental principles are questioned, systems are under pressure, and the futures of millions of women and girls are on the line. So let us use these two weeks to renew our resolve and make a strong push forward.

The EU remains steadfast in its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, and will continue to be a leading voice in this regard. The CSW opening and the adoption of the Agreed Conclusions yesterday - with resounding support -, send the clear message that multilateralism works, that it is possible to push back against the pushback and deliver results even in a time of division.

Tonight, we are honoured to be joined by two strong champions of women’s rights and gender equality, who will be delivering opening remarks: EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, H.E. Ms. Hadja Lahbib, and Commissioner for Gender Equality of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Ms. Josie Christodoulou.

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