OSCE meeting reviews the implementation of commitments on women’s participation in the economic sphere and decision-making processes
Vienna, 15 November – The development of women’s entrepreneurial skills and equal opportunity for participation in the labour market, the effective participation of women in decision-making processes in the economic and environmental spheres, and enhancing women’s leadership role in the OSCE region were among the themes discussed yesterday at the OSCE’s Economic and Environmental Dimension Implementation Meeting (EEDIM).
“Considering the current challenges for the security and stability of the OSCE region, caused by Russia’s devastating war of aggression against Ukraine and its people, discussions on past achievements and possible future OSCE engagement in the economic and environmental sphere seem more important than ever” said Ambassador Adam Halachinski, Chairman of the OSCE Permanent Council. “Today’s discussion is particularly relevant for women who are disproportionately affected by economic crisis and turmoil”.
“We are living very challenging times. With a war on the European continent and the aftermath of a deadly pandemic, women face not only security and health concerns, but unique economic and social challenges. In this context, the promotion of women’s rights and gender equality should be one of the priority areas of activity for all national governments and international organizations and institutions,” Liliana Palihovici, OSCE Chairman in Office Special Representative on Gender said.
“The pandemic and raising inflation rates have exacerbated existing fragilities, affecting those already suffering from long-standing economic marginalization,” Ambassador Igli Hasani, Coordinator of the Office of the Coordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities said. “Women represent the majority of the citizenry. Therefore, OCEEA is working toward women’s economic empowerment and engaging policymakers who must take proactive measures to prevent marginalization and increase the participation of women in the economic sphere.”
The EEDIM convenes once a year to review the implementation of Ministerial Council decisions, to assess the implementation of economic and environmental commitments and to gather ideas for future OSCE activities. It brings together governmental officials, civil society representatives, academia and the business community.