The First Meeting of the ASEAN Gender Mainstreaming Steering Committee 2023

The first meeting of the ASEAN Gender Mainstreaming Steering Committee has taken place on February 21-22, 2023, in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The meeting has been attended by ACWO president, Dr. Cecilia M. Dy, along with other key figures in the ASEAN region.

The steering committee aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment across the ASEAN region by developing strategies and policies that prioritize gender mainstreaming in all areas of governance, economics, and social development. It is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that gender issues are integrated into the work of all ASEAN sectors and that gender-sensitive approaches are adopted in policy-making and program implementation.

During the meeting, the committee has discuss a range of issues related to gender mainstreaming, including the development of a gender-responsive ASEAN community vision and action plan, the identification of key gender gaps and challenges, and the sharing of best practices and experiences in gender mainstreaming across the region.

Dr. Cecilia M. Dy, as the president of the ASEAN Confederation of Women’s Organizations, has brought her expertise and experience to the table in advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment in the ASEAN region. Her participation in the steering committee reflects the commitment of the ACWO and its member organizations to promoting gender mainstreaming and advancing the rights of women and girls across Southeast Asia.

Overall, the first meeting of the ASEAN Gender Mainstreaming Steering Committee is a significant step towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in the ASEAN region. It is expected to pave the way for more concerted efforts and partnerships in addressing the complex and persistent gender issues that continue to hinder women’s progress and development.