Today at 20:02
At the session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York, the main goal of the Ukrainian delegation is to inform the international community about the crimes committed by Russian invaders.
This was stated by Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister and deputy head of the delegation, Mariana Betsa, in a comment to Ukrinform.
“We spoke about Russia’s war crimes against Ukraine, crimes of genocide, aggression, and crimes against humanity. We highlighted the killings, torture, sexual violence, rape, and inhumane treatment of Ukrainian women, girls, and men by Russian invaders,” Betsa said.
Secondly, she emphasized the importance of sharing Ukraine’s experience in protecting women’s rights, promoting gender equality, and learning from best practices implemented by other countries.
Betsa noted that, for the first time, Ukraine chaired a ministerial-level meeting dedicated to national mechanisms for ensuring women’s rights. The event was attended by 70 ministers working on gender equality issues.
Despite the war, Ukraine continues to implement gender equality principles in legislation and policy, which is “crucial for our European integration, economic development, democracy, and peace,” Betsa stressed.
“Ukraine is striving to integrate the gender factor into the state governance system, including the diplomatic service,” she added.
On the sidelines of the session, the Ukrainian delegation participated in several events, including the meeting of the Alliance to Prevent Sexual Violence in Conflict. They also presented the book “Ukraine Speaks Out: Chronicles of the Fight against Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (2022–2024)” and screened the documentary “People of Steel” about the heroic defense of Mariupol.
As reported, the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women is taking place in New York from March 10 to 21. The session focuses on gender equality, women’s rights, and eliminating all forms of discrimination.
The Ukrainian delegation is led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Olha Stefanishyna, who participates remotely. Mariana Betsa and Government Commissioner for Gender Policy Kateryna Levchenko are present in New York. Other officials and representatives of non-governmental organizations are also part of the delegation.
