🌟 What do a global icon known as “Mama Beijing” and a landmark UN conference have in common? Gertrude Mongella, who led the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995, returned to the Chinese mainland’s capital for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women from October 13 to 14. This two-day event brought together diverse voices to mark another step forward in global gender equality.
Back in 1995, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action set the world on a new course for women’s rights. Gertrude travelled the globe, rallying governments, NGOs and grassroots groups to unite behind a shared blueprint. The result? A roadmap that continues to guide policies on education, health, economic empowerment and ending violence against women. 💪
In her exclusive interview, Gertrude recalls how Tanzania embraced the Beijing spirit. The country created gender focal points in every ministry and school, focusing on education, health, jobs and legal reform. Even the African Union adopted a resolution recognizing women’s vital role in peace and security—an idea born from Gertrude’s relentless advocacy.
Fast forward 30 years, and the energy hasn’t faded. Delegates at this year’s meeting agreed: there’s no turning back. Progress may be uneven, but the global community is more determined than ever to build a fairer world. “Women belong here,” Gertrude reminds us. “Let’s work with men to succeed.” 🌍
President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech resonated with that spirit. He underscored China’s commitment to projects that uplift women everywhere, from knowledge transfer with African partners to local initiatives that improve daily life. That kind of partnership, Gertrude says, moves us from dependency to real collaboration.
As the conference wraps up, the message is clear: the Beijing Platform for Action still guides us, and global partnership is the key. For the next generation of young leaders, the challenge is simple—keep pushing, stay united, and celebrate every victory on the road to equality. 🚀
Reference(s):
Gertrude Mongella: China's role in advancing global gender equality
cgtn.com
