The annual gathering, organized by the UN, focuses on gender equality and women’s empowerment. The priority theme for this year is ‘Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.’
We caught up with Shaniek about her aspirations for attending the prestigious event:
How do you feel about the opportunity to attend CSW68 next week?
I am honoured to attend CSW68, a global platform driving real change for gender equality. As a DPhil student, this is a special opportunity to learn from discussions on critical issues shaping the empowerment of women and girls. I’m grateful to UN Women UK for making this experience possible and look forward to joining virtually from Oxford to engage with the insights shared at this important gathering.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a significant agenda adopted by 189 countries to promote gender equality—CSW68 will play a vital role in shaping the next phase of global commitments.
What are your motivations for taking part?
As a DPhil (PhD) researcher in Population Health, I am deeply committed to understanding how digital media influences the dietary behaviours of young adults and how policy interventions can promote healthier outcomes. The 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) presents a unique opportunity to learn from global advocates, policymakers, and experts who are working to address gender disparities, financial barriers, and institutional frameworks that will in many ways, impact health decisions. With 2025 marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, this moment is crucial for shaping the next phase of strategies for gender equality and empowerment.
Attending CSW68 presents an invaluable opportunity for me to explore the connections between health, equality, and empowerment, which will expand my understanding of systemic change. I am extremely grateful for the chance to participate in official sessions, side events, and discussions with NGOs. I hope this experience will enhance my ability to translate research into action by learning from those who are at the forefront of policy and advocacy efforts. As a black woman, I am passionate about creating a world where every individual, regardless of gender, is treated equitably and empowered.
