Member states of the United Nations have gathered in New York City, United States, to discuss the global status of women during the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70).
The high-level meeting was officially opened on March 9, 2026 by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, and will run until March 19, 2026 at the UN headquarters.
The session is held under the theme: “Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, including by promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices, and addressing structural barriers.”
The annual gathering brings together government leaders, policymakers, civil society organisations and development partners from across the world to review progress and challenges in advancing gender equality and protecting women’s rights.
Discussions during the meeting focus on improving women’s access to justice and essential services, including rights to land ownership, access to education, legal awareness and legal aid, participation in leadership and political decision-making, and improved access to quality healthcare.
Tanzania is participating in the meeting with a delegation led by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Ms Felister Mdemu.
The delegation also includes experts from the ministry, representatives from other government institutions and civil society organisations.
The country’s national statement will be presented by the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dorothy Gwajima, who is expected to outline Tanzania’s progress and priorities in advancing gender equality and protecting the rights of women and girls.
The Commission on the Status of Women is one of the most important global forums under the United Nations that reviews policies and commitments aimed at empowering women and ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls around the world.
Through the meeting, member states share experiences and strengthen cooperation in addressing barriers that hinder women’s full participation in social, economic and political life.
