Mathilda’s CSW70 Blog Post

Justice at the Forefront

The 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women placed access to justice for women and girls at the center of global discussions.

I heard firsthand about the trauma survivors face after leaving abusive relationships and the continued prevalence of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation. Despite ongoing efforts, legal equality remains out of reach for many women worldwide.

Systemic barriers to health care continue to deepen inequality. Limited funding for women’s health services and restricted access to information, especially around reproductive health, compound disparities and limit women’s ability to make informed decisions. Without access to accurate information and essential services, progress toward gender equality remains incomplete. Addressing these challenges requires sustained commitment and open dialogue.

Lessons From the African Union

As the daughter of African immigrants, it was especially meaningful to hear women leaders from the African Union. They emphasized that barriers to equality are interconnected, including social exclusion, gender bias, and financial constraints that limit women’s participation in leadership.

Women hold only about 26% of parliamentary seats in Africa. It is important to stand up against systems that only reward access to those with money and an upper-class background, rather than with ability. These systems ensure the continuation of “boys clubs” in African politics.

A Call to Action

For advocates, CSW70 is a call to action. The cost of excluding women far outweighs the investment required to include them. Expanding access and dismantling systemic barriers are essential to building stronger, more inclusive democracies.