CSW70 - PUSHING FOR PROGRESS

DATE: Monday 9 March 2026
TIME: 1:15 pm – 2:30 pm (EDT)
PLACE: ECOSOC Chamber, UN Headquarters, New York City

Progressive family, welfare, and gender equality policies create the strongest foundations for families to thrive!

During this panel the Nordic ministers for gender equality will demonstrate how rights-based family policies – shared parental leave, access to childcare, bodily autonomy, and equal participation in the labor markets – strengthen families in all shapes and forms and improve the well-being of all family members.

In recent years, gender equality and family policies have become increasingly politicized. Across regions, hard-won rights and progress are being challenged, with claims that reproductive rights, gender equality, and the recognition of rainbow families undermine families themselves. The Nordic countries reject this false dichotomy!

Join the Nordic ministers, as we reaffirm: Gender equality makes families thrive!

DATE: Wednesday 11 March 2026
TIME:  1:15 – 2:30 pm (EDT)
PLACE:  Conference Room 2 , UN Headquarters, New York City

Gender equality is a cornerstone in a democratic society. Any democracy must defend gender equality and human rights to ensure democratic resilience and social cohesion.

However, coordinated counter-movements use disinformation to polarize societies and undermine democratic institutions and international commitments to gender equality and women’s rights. Many countries report that backlash against gender equality has undermined implementation nationally - slowing progress that could unlock equality, rights, and protection for all women and girls.

Bringing together policymakers and experts, this event will highlight how regional and international cooperation can strengthen democratic resilience, counter disinformation, and uphold gender equality and human rights.

Join us for a discussion on how to counter disinformation and defend progress toward gender equality and democratic resilience.