Monday, January 5, 2015

What To Expect

The upcoming CSW will be different from recent meetings of the CSW in a number of ways. First of all, it is 20 years since Beijing so there will be reviews of what has been achieved, challenges that continue, and the challenges that face us. There are other events/milestones that are occurring that also have made the global women's movement even more aware of how important it is to demand equality, human rights, respect and a life free of violence. All this is leading to a very well attended CSW by many NGOs from all over the world.

Some things we will know ahead of the actual meetings, and thankfully there is the web where there is lots of information and opportunities for sharing. One of the things to realize is that there is most importantly a formal part of the meetings. This is where the actual country representatives meet, and formally discuss and agree to certain resolutions or documents that come out of the CSW. There will be something different in this CSW with a Declaration at the BEGINNING of the CSW, actually one of the first items of business. How NGOs can influence this document is unknown at this time. What Canada's position will be in terms of asking for NGO's input is also unknown. I understand the process is being led by UN Women and ongoing during January, February, with the draft Declaration being agreed to on the first day, March 9th, in the morning.

During the formal meetings, NGO's have limited access, sometimes you can view sessions on the live streaming, and it is not possible for all the NGOs to attend the sessions. Delegations may receive one ticket. There is limited opportunity to actually participate in the sessions.

The organization of the formal work is now available, here.

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